Russians will be able to return a new smartphone as defective starting in September if it’s impossible to install RuStore on it.

First of all, the innovations will affect the iPhone. Starting from September 1, a law will come into force requiring manufacturers and suppliers of gadgets sold in Russia to provide "the technical possibility for the free installation and updating of domestic applications," including RuStore.

If a manufacturer or supplier is unable to ensure the installation of RuStore, such devices may be considered non-compliant with mandatory requirements, explained Sheikin. According to the senator, buyers have the right to return such devices as defective.

Sheikin insists that the measures are crucial for strengthening Russia's technological independence and information security.

"Dependence on foreign platforms has repeatedly led to restrictions on access to important digital services and the imposition of rules that contradict the interests of Russian users," said the member of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation.

In the absence of RuStore on iPhones and iPads, there is a risk of increased "consumer extremism," notes an industry expert from Forbes. There are problems in consumer relations when scammers specifically hack a smartphone and then demand compensation.

Against this backdrop, Apple equipment sellers have started using new labeling to comply with the requirement for pre-installing the RuStore app on iOS smartphones and tablets.

Users are reminded of the risks of buying an iPhone with a tampered package, as third parties could have registered the device under their Apple ID and then rendered the gadget non-functional. It is likely that sellers will remove smartphones from the packaging in front of the customer and sell them as used.