Apple investigated by Russia for 'homosexual propaganda' over its emojis featuring same-sex couples

Russian police have launched an investigation into US tech giant Apple on charges of “homosexual propaganda” over emojis featuring same-sex couples used on its iOS operating system.

Local police in Russia’s Kirov region began their enquiries after Orthodox activist and lawyer Yaroslav Mikhailov complained that the images violated a controversial 2013 law banning the promotion of homosexuality to minors.

The emojis in question, which were launched by Apple earlier this year, include ones featuring same-sex couples with children as well as people of the same sex holding hands.

Several Russian MPs have criticized emoticons featuring gay couples on online platforms in recent months but this is the first time police have got involved. If found guilty, Apple faces up a fine of up to a million rubles (£10,000).