Messenger MAX Learns to Recognize Information in Photos Using AI
Russia’s national messenger MAX has received a major AI upgrade: it can now recognize handwritten and printed text directly from photos without sending data to the cloud, redefining on‑device privacy and document processing.
On‑Device OCR Powered by Ultra‑Light Neural Networks
Developers at Smart Engines have integrated advanced optical character recognition (OCR) technology into MAX mini‑apps, allowing the messenger to scan and interpret handwritten and printed text from both physical and digital media.
The system works entirely offline — no network connection, no data transmission — ensuring full privacy. According to Smart Engines CEO Vladimir Arlazarov, the high processing speed is enabled by proprietary 4.6‑bit neural networks, a breakthrough in efficient AI architecture.
Automation and Global Language Support
The new feature streamlines document handling: users can digitize text for copying, searching, translation, editing, or creating electronic archives. The AI supports more than 100 languages, making the tool globally versatile. Previously, Smart Engines added modules for scanning passports, QR codes, and bank cards inside MAX mini‑apps, all while keeping data strictly on‑device to prevent leaks.
A Step Toward Secure National Digital Infrastructure
This AI implementation strengthens MAX’s role as a secure digital platform within Russia’s communication ecosystem. Offline OCR reduces risk exposure for sensitive documents, aligning with the country’s push toward technological sovereignty and local innovation in AI.
The update demonstrates how lightweight neural networks can deliver enterprise‑grade performance while preserving user privacy — a direction likely to shape the next generation of secure communication tools.
