ITV News
Apple removes VPN and proxy apps from Russian App Store
Move coincides with Telegram disruptions as Russia tightens internet controls.
MUMBAI: When the digital walls go up, even the cleverest escape routes can find themselves quietly blocked and Apple has just helped seal a few more in Russia. Apple has removed several VPN and proxy applications from its App Store in Russia as authorities intensify efforts to control internet access. The delisting includes apps such as Streisand, V2Box, v2RayTun and Happ Proxy Utility, which were popular among advanced users for setting up private proxy connections and bypassing restrictions.
These tools differed from mainstream VPN services like NordVPN or Surfshark by allowing manual server configuration and custom routing, making them harder for regulators to detect and block. Reports indicate the apps have been removed not only in Russia but also in some other regions, though similar tools remain available to Android users via Google Play.
Existing users who already have the apps installed can continue using them, but they will no longer receive updates, including important security patches or new features.
The removals align with a broader regulatory push in Russia to tighten control over online content. In recent years, authorities have introduced laws targeting services that help users circumvent restrictions. Enforcement now appears to be shifting towards tools with custom configurations, limiting alternative paths to unrestricted internet.
The move comes alongside ongoing disruptions to Telegram, a widely used messaging platform in Russia. Officials have indicated improvements in detecting VPN traffic, which may be contributing to these service interruptions.
For many Russian iPhone users, the combination of app removals and service disruptions signals growing limitations on internet access. With fewer tools available, bypassing restrictions could become significantly more challenging as enforcement continues to expand.
In a country where staying connected often requires creative workarounds, this latest development suggests the authorities and now Apple are making those workarounds a little harder to find.
ITV News
Olio Pizza, Rajasthan Royals renew partnership for IPL 2026
Campaign blends cricket frenzy with food play as brand bets on match-day consumption and fan engagement
New Delhi: Cricket meets crust again. Curefoods’ Olio Pizza has renewed its partnership with Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026, doubling down on a high-decibel campaign—“Slice Maar”—to turn match nights into a consumption ritual.
At its core is a punchy, crowd-ready slogan that straddles sport and snacking: the crack of a big hit and the bite of a large slice. Anchoring the campaign is a new hero product, the Royal Pizza Slice—a 24 cm, single-serve portion priced from Rs 99, aimed squarely at budget-conscious fans looking for a quick indulgence during games.
“Our partnership with the Rajasthan Royals is a cornerstone of our year, and we’re thrilled to be back for another season. The ‘SLICE MAAR’ campaign is pure, unadulterated fan energy. It’s the sound of a six being hit and the feeling of grabbing the perfect slice of pizza on match night. With the new Royal Pizza Slice, we’re not just selling a product; we’re serving an essential part of the cricket ritual for every single fan, making the game-day experience more accessible and exciting than ever before,” said Gokul Kandhi, chief operating officer, Curefoods.
For Rajasthan Royals, the tie-up is less about logos and more about loyalty. “Our partnership with Olio Pizza is a testament to the long-term relationships we hold dear. Over these years, we have grown together, creating a platform that goes beyond sponsorship—one that enriches how our fans connect with every match. We look forward to strengthening this collaboration further as we continue to create meaningful, high-quality experiences for our fans,” said Alok Chitre, chief operating officer, Rajasthan Royals.
The campaign will roll out across stadiums and screens. Olio Pizza will dominate concourse activations at Royals’ home fixtures in Jaipur and Guwahati, serve as presenting sponsor for one key match, and feature an Olio-branded cheer squad during broadcasts. Co-branded kiosks and hawker units inside stadiums will push the Royal Pizza Slice to fans in real time.
Off the field, the brand is building a longer play. The Olio Dugout on Sahakar Marg in Jaipur will host watch parties, house a live merchandise store and run fan engagement programmes through the IPL season. In partnership with Super Royals, the franchise’s official fan community, Olio Pizza will also roll out contests and match-day experiences, sending select fans to live games.
Distribution is wide by design. The Royal Pizza Slice will be available across Olio Pizza outlets in more than 40 cities and via delivery platforms Swiggy and Zomato.
One campaign, one slice, one swing at owning the IPL appetite—and this time, Olio wants a bigger bite.
