Apple has announced significant changes to the App Store in Japan to comply with the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA), which takes effect on December 18. The new regulations aim to increase competition and user choice, similar to Europe’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), but with some key differences.
Alternative Payment Options
In Japan, developers must now display third‑party payment options alongside Apple’s in‑app purchase system. This allows users to choose their preferred payment method. Purchase screens can link to a website or use a third‑party payment service for end‑to‑end checkout directly in an app. However, the in‑app purchase option must be at least as prominent as other payment methods. Developers can offer different price points, making direct payment links potentially cheaper. When users choose an alternative payment option, they will see a notification that they are no longer transacting with Apple and that Apple’s services, such as refund requests, will not be available.
Alternative App Marketplaces
Developers in Japan can now offer their apps through the App Store or any alternative app marketplace. These marketplaces are subject to Apple’s Notarization process, ensuring basic functionality, malware, and security threat checks. However, Apple does not oversee content in these marketplaces. Developers can choose to distribute their apps through one or multiple marketplaces, and users can set a default app marketplace that replaces the App Store as the primary app option.
Fees in Japan
Apple has introduced a new fee structure in Japan based on distribution and payment methods. The company states that fees will be the same or lower for all developers in Japan. Participants in programs like the Small Business Program, Video Partner Program, and Mini Apps Partner Program will pay reduced rates. Subscriptions in apps maintained after the first year are also subject to lower fees. The fee structure varies depending on whether purchases are made through in‑app purchases or alternative payment methods, with different rates for standard users and program participants.
Side Button Changes
Users in Japan can now change the function of the Side Button to assign a voice‑based conversational app. Apps that offer a conversational experience as their primary purpose, such as chatbot apps like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini, are eligible for this feature. The Side Button will activate the voice chat mode in an eligible third‑party app, functioning similarly to the Action Button when launching an app using a Shortcut.
Child Protections
All apps must provide an install sheet with a clear age rating, regardless of whether they are distributed through the App Store or an alternative marketplace. Apps in the Kids category cannot include links to websites for transactions. Apps outside the kids category cannot link to websites for transactions for users under 13 years old. For users under 18, apps using alternative payment processing or linking to a website for transactions must include a parental gate requiring parental involvement before making a purchase.
Browser and Search Engine Choice
During the device setup process, iPhone users in Japan can now choose their default browser and search engine from a randomized list of options. Safari and Google Search will no longer be the automatic defaults. Developers can choose alternative web browser engines other than WebKit, as long as they meet Apple’s privacy requirements. Users can change their defaults in the Settings app.
Interoperability
The MSCA requires Apple to accept interoperability requests from developers, allowing them expanded access to hardware and software features. Apple has more control over interoperability in Japan than in the EU, considering security and privacy risks when deciding whether to implement an interoperability feature. This approach aims to prevent delays in feature implementation, as seen in the EU with features like Live Translation and Screen Mirroring.
MSCA vs. DMA
Apple worked with Japanese regulators on the MSCA and views it as a better solution than the DMA in Europe. The MSCA allows for alternative app distribution while maintaining some security by overseeing app marketplaces. It also enables Apple to deny interoperability requests that pose privacy and security risks, unlike the DMA. Additionally, the fee structures and features in Japan are less complicated than those in the EU.
Availability
The changes are available starting today with the iOS 26.2 update, which was released on December 12. Developers with iOS apps in Japan can start implementing the new features immediately. More detailed information is available on Apple’s developer site. These changes apply only to iOS apps distributed in Japan.
Apple’s changes to the App Store in Japan reflect a significant shift towards increased competition and user choice, while balancing security and privacy considerations. The new regulations aim to create a more open and flexible app ecosystem for developers and users alike.
