Apple has introduced a major update to its iOS platform in Japan as part of its efforts to comply with the country’s new Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). The update, released as part of iOS 26.2, is one of the most significant changes to Apple’s mobile ecosystem in the region, giving developers more freedom in how they distribute and monetize their apps — while also introducing new safety measures.
Opening App Distribution Beyond the App Store
Under the MSCA’s requirements, Apple now allows developers in Japan to distribute iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces that are authorized by Apple. These marketplaces must meet ongoing requirements to maintain security and operational standards.
However, Apple emphasizes that the App Store will remain the most secure and trusted way for users to discover and download apps, as it continues to apply its full App Review process. Apps obtained outside the App Store will not benefit from the same protections, which Apple warns could increase exposure to scams, fraud, and harmful content.
To mitigate these new risks, Apple has introduced a baseline security review called “Notarization.” This process includes automated checks and human review focused on fundamental app security, but it is less comprehensive than the App Store’s standard review.
Expanded Payment Options for Developers and Users
Apple’s update also opens up alternative payment methods for digital goods and services inside iOS apps in Japan. Developers can integrate third-party payment processing within their apps or include links that direct users to external websites to complete transactions.
These alternative payment options must be presented alongside Apple’s own In-App Purchase system, giving users a clear choice. Apple notes that purchases made through its In-App Purchase continue to benefit from built-in features such as refunds, subscription management, and purchase history tracking.
In contrast, Apple cannot provide refunds or manage subscriptions for purchases handled through alternative payment processors or external links, which could expose users to additional risk and require them to share payment information with third parties.
New Business Terms and Developer Fees
To support the expanded distribution and payment landscape, Apple has updated its business terms for iOS apps in Japan. These terms aim to reflect the various ways developers can create and distribute apps under the MSCA:
- App Store commission: Developers using the App Store will pay either 10% on most transactions — including members of Apple’s Small Business, Video Partner, and Mini Apps Partner programs and for subscriptions after the first year — or 21% on other digital goods and services.
- Apple payment processing fee: For developers using Apple’s In-App Purchase, an additional 5% fee applies on top of the App Store commission.
- Store services commission: For transactions completed through a website linked from within an app, Apple will charge 15%, with a reduced 10% rate for qualifying programs and subscriptions.
- Core Technology Commission: Developers distributing apps outside the App Store will pay a 5% commission on digital goods and services, reflecting compensation for Apple’s software infrastructure that supports iOS.
- Apple states that under these updated terms, many developers selling digital goods in Japan will pay equal to or less than they did before the changes.
Extra Protections and Platform Choices
Apple is also introducing safeguards to protect younger users and preserve a level of online safety even as the ecosystem opens up. For example:
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Apps categorized for children on the App Store won’t include external payment links, reducing exposure to scams.
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For users under 18, parental gates will be required when alternative payment methods or external links are used.
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For children under 13, apps cannot include any external links for transactions.
Alongside distribution and payment changes, iOS 26.2 adds broader user choice features in Japan, such as new browser and search engine choice experiences, and tools for developers to use alternative browser engines under specific security requirements.
A Platform in Transition
Apple’s changes in Japan reflect a significant regulatory shift that balances increased platform competition with privacy and security considerations. While these updates aim to give developers more freedom and consumers more choice, they also introduce complexities that both developers and users will need to navigate carefully.
Apple continues to work with regulators to strengthen safeguards on its platform and provide developers with tools and guidance as the new system evolves.
Source: Apple Newsroom
