What are Apple's new iOS rules in Japan?

Apple is allowing alternative app stores, external payment options, and browser choice screens in Japan to comply with the Mobile Software Competition Act.

How is Apple ensuring security with alternative app stores in Japan?

Apple introduced 'Notarization', a process involving baseline security reviews for third-party marketplaces and child-safety protocols.

Will these Apple changes affect users outside of Japan?

No, these specific iOS changes are only for users in Japan and do not apply to the US or other regions.

Home / Technology / Japan Forces Apple to Change iOS Rules

Japan Forces Apple to Change iOS Rules

18 Dec

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Summary

Apple must now allow alternative app stores and payments in Japan.
New 'Notarization' process enhances security for third-party stores.
Browser and search engine choice screens are now available to users.

Apple has announced significant changes to its iOS operating system in Japan to comply with the country's new Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA), which took effect on December 18, 2025. These regulations mandate the allowance of alternative app stores and payment methods within apps.

To address potential security concerns, Apple has implemented a 'Notarization' process. This involves security reviews for third-party app marketplaces and child-safety protocols. Despite these measures, Apple cautions that these reviews are less comprehensive than its own App Store standards.

Further modifications include enabling developers to offer non-Apple payment processors and links to external websites for purchases, with children's content being an exception. Users will also encounter new default choice screens for browsers and search engines, alongside the ability for browsers to use alternative engines beyond Apple's WebKit.