Russia and Apple Inc. (AAPL): The Crucial News You Missed

We have discussed Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s presence in Russia in the past, and this time around we have good news for the people of this country. Earlier today, the Cupertino based company finally introduced its online storefront to the Russian market. In other words, residents are now able to shop its full range of products, including the iPhone among many other devices.

If you want to see the storefront for yourself, you can do so by visiting this page. While the layout and design is what you would expect, the content is in Russian. Unless you can speak this language, you are going to be at a loss.

Apple Inc (AAPL)Along with the ability to make purchases, this Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) online store offers all the features others around the world have come to love. From live chat to the ability to learn more about the company’s many products, it is easy to see that Cupertino did not skimp.

Along with its own products, the store also sells a variety of third party accessories. Russian consumers will also enjoy free shipping on any purchase of 4000 Rubles or more.

At this time, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) does not have a physical location in Russia. For this reason, the people of the country may not fully understand just how big the brand has become in many other parts of the world. However, the availability of online ordering is going to change this slowly but surely.

Since there is no local store, those who need to return an order for any reason will be requested to do so via mail. That being said, there are authorized service providers in the area that are able to deal with defective products.

There is no denying the fact that Cupertino has not made much headway in Russia over the years. This is not one of the markets in which the company has put a lot of time and effort. Of course, this goes a long way in showing that the future could be different.

Last year, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) rolled out iTunes in Russia along with a number of other countries throughout the world.

The next big question is this: will Apple eventually open a physical storefront in Russia? If so, Moscow would make the most sense. This may not be something Cupertino is planning right now, but in the future you never know what is going to happen.

What are your thoughts on Apple finally becoming more involved in the Russian market? Do you think this is a good play on the company’s part? Share your thoughts below while also checking out this recent news story regarding the iPhone maker.