After Google Play Store removed its access to Russia, the country decided to launch its own version of the app store called "OurStore" in English translation, and the local name is NashStore.
Russia is Providing an Alternative to the Google Play Store
According to the story by PCMag, Russians are providing an alternative app store for Android users set to launch on May 9. Upon the launch of the app store, Russians will finally be able to buy apps once again.
While the sanctions against Russia are starting to stretch into every sector (including app purchases), citizens within Russia using an Android device won't be allowed to purchase apps with Google Play.
Sanctions Against Russia Push Country to Provide a Google Play Store Alternative
With the sanctions against Russia, the country is now even considering "software piracy." To add, Russia's move to provide an alternative to the Google Play Store is due to the fact that the country's citizens were not capable of making payments due to Google suspending all payment services.
Reuters reported that this has resulted in the country developing an alternative set to launch on May 9. As per the article by PCMag, the store is set to be called NashStore, which in English translation says "OurStore."
Russian Organization Digital Platforms Develops NashStore
The upcoming NashStore is said to be the work of Digital Platforms, a Russian Organization. The launch date for the app store, May 9, is a Russian holiday which is known as Victory Day, commemorating the 1945 surrender of the German Reich.
This particular event is a Russian national holiday that celebrates the country's victory during World War II.
NashStore to be Compatible with Russian Mir Bank Cards
When initially asked why NashStore was created, the director of projects at Digital Platforms, Vladimir Zykov, stated that it was unfortunate that Russians are no longer able to use Google Play to purchase apps and developers no longer have a source of income.
One fortunate feature for Russians is that the upcoming NashStore will be easily compatible with the use of Russian Mir bank cards. To add, this should reportedly allow local developers to be able to start making a living once again by selling apps.
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Top Apps in Russia Still Include Google and Google Chrome
However, the limitations for developers in Russia would be that they can only sell their apps through NashStore. This limits their reach and customer base due to the unavailability of the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Based on SimilarWeb data, Google remained the most popular app in Russia, with WhatsApp, YouTube, and Google Chrome following. To add, the fifth most popular app in Russia is "СберБанк Онлайн - с Салютом " with "VK: music, video, messenger" following.
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This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Urian B.
