Apple has rolled out iOS changes in Japan to comply with the country’s Mobile Software Competition Act, adding support for alternative app marketplaces, payments outside the App Store, and additional browser choice. The updates are Japan-only for now, meaning users elsewhere won’t see these options yet. Apple says it worked with Japanese regulators on added protections—described as “Notarization”—to help manage malware and other security risks as iPhone software distribution becomes more open. The first wave of marketplace competition arrived quickly: AltStore PAL launched in Japan, letting users install apps through its store shortly after Apple’s rule changes took effect.

Highlights:

• Fortnite stance: Epic Games CEO said Fortnite still won’t return in Japan under the new framework, arguing the updated rules continue to involve high fees.
• Payments flexibility: Developers in Japan can now use non-Apple payment processors inside apps or link out to external websites for purchases, expanding how digital goods can be sold on iOS there.
• Security review: Apple’s “Notarization” includes a baseline security review for third-party marketplaces using human and automated checks intended to block malware and other threats, plus child-safety protocols.
• Developer terms: Apple updated its Developer Program License Agreement with new provisions, including Japan-specific terms and new privacy-related rules following the App Store changes.
• Business context: Engadget reported Apple’s App Store generated $1.3 trillion in total sales in 2024, underscoring why opening distribution and payments is a meaningful shift for Apple’s services business.

The App Store — where every app is reviewed to meet the App Store's high bar for privacy and security — remains the best place for iOS users in Japan to discover and download the apps they love - Apple

Perspectives:

• Apple: Apple says the Japan-only changes add alternative marketplaces and payment options while using “Notarization” and other safeguards to reduce security risks; it also emphasizes that App Store review remains more comprehensive. (Engadget)
• Japanese regulators: Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act drove the iOS changes, with Apple saying it worked with regulators on protections to accompany the new openness. (Engadget)
• Epic Games: Epic’s CEO argues the revised structure still requires high fees, and says Fortnite will not return to Japan under the new rules. (TechCrunch)
• AltStore team / users: AltStore PAL’s Japan launch gives iPhone and iPad users a new way to install apps via an alternative marketplace as soon as the policy shift arrived. (9to5Mac)

Sources:

• AltStore Available in Japan One Day After Apple Enables Alternative App Marketplaces - reddit.com
• Apple opens up its App Store to competition in Japan - techcrunch.com
• Apple Opens iOS to Developers in Japan - techrepublic.com
• Apple opens up iOS in Japan in response to new regulations - engadget.com
• Following sweeping App Store changes, AltStore PAL launches in Japan - 9to5mac.com