Russian energy producer Lukoil announced that its mobile applications AZS Lukoil and Lukoil for Business have become temporarily unavailable for download in the Apple App Store.
The Moscow-based company informed customers of the disappearance in a statement published on its official Telegram channel. Lukoil advised users who already have either application installed on their smartphones not to delete them from their devices.
To prevent accidental deletion, the company recommended that iPhone owners turn off the automatic offloading of unused applications in their App Store settings. The iOS operating system feature automatically removes infrequently used software applications from local storage during background cleanups, which would cause users to lose access to the app binary.
Lukoil is one of Russia's largest petroleum companies and operates an extensive retail network of filling stations across the country. Its consumer mobile application, AZS Lukoil, is widely used by motorists to locate service stations, pay for fuel at the pump, and manage loyalty points, while Lukoil for Business provides account management services for commercial corporate clients. Apple manages the App Store as the exclusive software distribution channel for iOS hardware worldwide.
Loyalty program access
Despite the software removal from the digital storefront, Lukoil stated that existing members of its customer loyalty program will retain access to main program features through the official company website. The energy producer noted that the website allows customers to check balances and participate in company promotions without requiring the mobile application.
For new customers wishing to join the rewards scheme, Lukoil clarified that registration remains available directly at gas station cash registers. Drivers can register using a telephone number at the checkout counter to begin earning bonus points and participating in promotional offers.
Restrictions on alternative installation
The disappearance of the corporate applications follows recent actions by Apple Corporation to restrict alternative methods used by Russian iPhone owners to install deleted software. Apple recently blocked access through iMazing, a popular third-party device management service that previously allowed users to restore deleted applications onto iOS devices outside the official marketplace.
Attempts to install software on iPhones by bypassing the App Store using such services now result in an HTTP 403 access denied error code. Apple maintains strict controls over software distribution on iOS, and numerous applications from Russian financial institutions and corporations have been removed from the platform in recent years.
