Apple is making extensive changes to the App Store and iOS in Japan. This is due to the new Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). The adjustments affect app distribution, new payment models, revised commission structures, additional parental controls, and technical innovations on the iPhone. Apple is thus responding to regulatory requirements and further opening up its ecosystem without completely abandoning core security mechanisms.
Apple announced the changes in the Apple Newsroom and on its developer website. The company made it clear that, from Apple's perspective, alternative app marketplaces and new payment methods pose additional risks. These risks primarily include malware, fraud, scams, and potential threats to data protection and privacy. At the same time, Apple emphasized its close collaboration with Japanese authorities to reach a compromise between legal obligations and user protection. The measures now presented are the result of this consultation.
Changes to app distribution in Japan
Apple will now allow developers in Japan to offer their apps outside of the App Store. Apps can be distributed through alternative app marketplaces and are no longer exclusively tied to the App Store.
Regardless of the distribution channel, Apple is introducing a mandatory notarization review. This review focuses on the app's basic functionality and protection against serious threats. Notarization consists of automated checks and manual inspections. The goal is to ensure that apps function as described and do not contain malware, viruses, or other security-relevant content.
New payment options in the App Store
In addition to app distribution, Apple is also changing the rules for payments within iOS apps in Japan.
Apple In-App Purchase remains unchanged and can still be used. Additionally, Apple allows alternative payment options for digital goods and services. Developers may sell digital content within their apps through external payment processors. Furthermore, it is permitted to redirect users to external offers or promotions via active links in a web browser to complete purchases.
One important requirement remains in place. As soon as an app offers alternative payment options, Apple In-App Purchase must continue to be available as a parallel payment option. Apple IAP cannot be completely removed.
New terms and conditions and commission models
With the new payment and sales options, Apple is also introducing adapted terms and conditions that include several types of commission.
Reduced App Store commissions apply to iOS apps in the App Store. Developers in the Small Business Program, Video Partner Program, Mini Apps Partner Program, and those with subscriptions after the first year pay 10 percent. For all other transactions of digital goods and services in the App Store, the commission is 21 percent.
Apple also charges a payment processing fee. If Apple In-App Purchase is used, an additional fee of 5 percent applies.
A store services commission of 15 percent applies to transactions of digital goods and services conducted via a website linked to the app. Developers participating in the aforementioned programs, as well as subscribers after the first year, pay a reduced rate of 10 percent.
Apps distributed outside the App Store pay a commission for core technology. This commission is 5 percent of the sale of digital goods and services, including paid apps. Apple justifies this fee by citing the provision of development tools, technologies, and services necessary to create and deliver apps to iOS users.
Protective measures for children and young people
A key aspect of the changes concerns the protection of children. Apple, together with Japanese regulatory authorities, has defined additional safety rules.
Apps in the children's category must not contain links to external websites through which transactions can be processed. This is intended to reduce the risk of fraud and scams specifically targeting children.
For users under 18, apps with alternative payment methods or external payment links are required to integrate parental controls. This ensures that parents or guardians are involved before a purchase.
Links to external payment websites are completely prohibited for users under 13 years of age. This rule is intended to protect younger children from fraudulent content.
Additionally, Apple is working on a new API that will allow parents to monitor and approve purchases made outside of Apple In-App Purchase.
Apple points out that, from a business perspective, the MSCA is clearer and stricter on this point than comparable regulations in the European Union. As an example, Apple cites regulatory changes in Europe that allowed apps previously unavailable on iOS, including pornography apps.
Changes to the iOS platform and the iPhone
With iOS 26.2, several changes are coming directly to iPhones in Japan. Users will now be able to specify which navigation apps and app stores are used by default in the settings. Additionally, a new browser selection screen and a search engine selection screen will be introduced.
Apple also announced three new tools for developers. Browser apps will gain new ways to use alternative browser engines outside of WebKit, albeit under strict security and privacy requirements. A new API allows developers of voice-based conversation apps to launch their app via the iPhone's side button and replace Siri as the default voice assistant. In addition, Apple is introducing a process that allows developers to request interoperability with core iOS and iPhone technologies.
These features are available now with iOS 26.2. Apple provides further details on its developer support page and in a comprehensive press release.
Apple is redesigning the app ecosystem in Japan
With the announced changes, Apple is implementing a comprehensive overhaul of its app ecosystem in Japan. The App Store will be opened to alternative marketplaces and payment models, while new commission structures and technical rules will be introduced. At the same time, Apple is placing great emphasis on security audits and the protection of children and young people. These adjustments demonstrate how Apple is attempting to comply with MSCA regulations without completely relinquishing control over security, privacy, and the technical foundation of iOS. For developers and iPhone users in Japan, these steps mark a profound transformation that is also being closely watched internationally. (Image: Apple)
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