Japan says Apple and Google must allow third-party app stores on devices by end 2025
Does this mark the start of the breaking down of Apple's walled garden?
#appleappstore #googleplay #appstore #japan
Apple and Google are required by law in Japan to allow third-party app stores on their devices by end 2025. (Image source: Campaign Asia)
Following the enforcement of the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Japan passed a new law to force Apple and Google to allow third-party app stores on their devices.
Similar to the DMA, Japan's Act on Promotion of Competition for Specified Smartphone Software requires "designated providers" such as Apple and Google to give app developers the option to offer third-party billing services.
The law also seeks to make it easier for users to change their default settings and web browsers. And finally, to prevent players like Apple and Google from prioritising their own services in search engines.
The new law is expected to be enforced by the end of 2025 with the objectives of lowering app prices and promoting a more equal app store market for smaller players. If designated providers violate the law, they could be fined up to 20% of the domestic revenue. This can go up to 30% for repeat violations.
Epic Games, which has been embroiled in legal battles with Apple in the past few years, celebrated the passing of the new law in Japan by stating that its game store platform and Fortnite will come to iOS in late 2025.
In a statement to The Verge, Apple says it will continue discussions with Japan's Fair Trade Commission during the implementation period and express its concerns about how the new law affects the "secure and private iPhone experience" that Japanese consumers have come to expect.
Apple has remained steadfast in its stance that sideloading of apps on the iPhone and iPad is risky. It even went the extra mile to publish a whitepaper on the matter.
Source: The Verge
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.