Almost two thirds of Russian citizens supported the creation of a national messenger

The idea of creating a national messenger was supported by 64% of Russians, according to a July 30 survey by the All-Russian Public Opinion Center (VTsIOM).

More than half of our fellow citizens (58%) are aware of its development. The new platform attracts Russians by contributing to the improvement of data security and technological sovereignty of Russia: For 55% of mobile app and messenger users, it is important that their data is stored on Russian servers.

Users primarily expect high and stable quality audio and video calls from the MAX messenger, the ability to send large files, access to government services, and security and privacy features.

According to the data obtained, the younger generation liked the versatility of messengers, which can be used as a "universal platform for content consumption and self-expression."

"The organization of the workflow through messengers and news monitoring are most relevant among the active working age audience," the VTsIOM website says.

The most popular function of messengers for everyone was maintaining social connections with family and friends, after that, users were interested in monitoring the news and organizing the work or educational process. Half of the users (53%) appreciated the concept of a "single window" that combines many functions in one service.

The survey showed that the vast majority of Russians consider messenger to be ideal if it eliminates the need to switch between other applications. The most popular of them are the functions of making an appointment with a doctor, calling a taxi, an AI assistant, public services, buying or booking tickets, as well as online orders. Usually, for such purposes, a user needs to have up to five applications in their mobile device.

Smart MAX: will VK's national messenger be able to repeat the success of Chinese WeChat

Machine learning technologies have been introduced in the new product to improve call quality.

On June 30, the MAX service's press service reported that the first million users had signed up for the Russian digital platform. It was noted that of the total, the Android mobile version accounts for 75%, and the iOS version accounts for 23%. It is also reported that most users are in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan and Krasnodar.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.