In a recent statement, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy Anton Gorelykin has raised concerns about the potential impact of the inability to service Google equipment in Russia on the functionality of Android in the country. Gorelykin highlighted the importance of regularly updating Google caching servers installed on Russian communications operators’ nodes, a task that is currently hindered by the absence of a formal company presence in Russia, as well as US government sanctions restricting Google’s ability to collaborate with Russian partners.
Gorelykin emphasized the possibility of equipment failure over time without proper servicing, particularly expressing worry about the implications for the stability of the Android operating system, which heavily relies on the functionality of these servers. The situation has prompted concerns about the sustainable operation of Android within Russia.
Furthermore, Gorelykin elaborated on the factors contributing to the disparity in YouTube speed between mobile Internet and cable providers. These factors include the diverse network infrastructures, the limited computing capacity of Google servers, and the company’s varying policies regarding access to video hosting services through mobile applications versus web browsers.