Apple’s New Russian Trademark Moves Raise Concerns Over Gray Market iPhones

According to TASS, Apple has registered its trademark in Russia. The application was submitted to Rospatent in November 2023 and reported on January 14. As of 2025, Apple has registered only one trademark in Russia named “Center Stage,” dated November 2024.

Separately, sources report that illegal iPhone sales in Russia have surged to 70%. The question remains: why is this trend dangerous for users and what measures can effectively combat these “gray” imports?

On November 18, it was reported by multiple sources that the Apple designer who helped develop the ultrathin iPhone Air had left the corporation. This individual is widely regarded as the main creator of the model. Analysts note that the iPhone Air did not achieve significant market success due to low demand. It is also claimed that the designer’s departure was unrelated to these performance issues.