In 2026, MAX Is to Help Russians Verify Benefits and Get Discounts
The domestic platform’s functionality is set to expand significantly.
Russia’s MAX messenger is set to expand its digital ID capabilities in 2026. Sergey Shakryl, a developer of the domestic MAX platform, outlined the upcoming features during an interview on the Rossiya 24 television channel.
The digital ID in the MAX app is a QR code generated from a user’s account data on the government services portal Gosuslugi. Since 2025, the feature has been used to verify age at self-checkout counters when purchasing age-restricted products.
Discounts, Benefits, Travel, and Hotel Check-Ins
According to the developer, the number of use cases for the digital ID will grow in 2026. In the near future, the technology will make it possible to confirm eligibility for benefits and receive discounts.
Earlier, Sergey Boyarsky, head of the State Duma’s committee on information policy, said that in the future the digital ID in the MAX messenger could allow Russians to verify their identity on planes, trains, and buses, as well as check into hotels.
