Apple Allows Third-Party App Stores on iOS in Japan

Apple revealed the modifications it is making to the iOS App Store in Japan to adhere to the nation’s new laws. Third-party app stores and payment processing options will be permitted, but new commission costs will be applied to such transactions.

Similar to the EU, developers in Japan will soon be able to distribute apps on alternative app stores; AltStore PAL anticipates launching in Japan before the end of the year. Apple will receive a five percent commission for in-app purchases made in third-party stores, much like in Europe.

The main changes introduced in iOS 26.2 is an alternative app marketplaces to distribute iOS apps outside of the official Apple App Store whereby Japanese developers can now establish and run authorised third-party app shops. Also a flexible payment options for developers who can choose to integrate their own third-party payment processors into apps, use Apple’s in-app purchase mechanism, or send users to external websites to finish purchases.

This is a good news for all as App Store apps will soon be able to link to websites where users can make purchases or use other payment methods in addition to Apple’s. For in-app sales, Apple will continue to charge up to 21% per transaction, with a 15% commission for digital items purchased via a website that is linked from the app.

This implementation also In Japan, will allow Apple to implement new compensation rates for developers with the 5% Core Technology compensation for digital goods and services sold via apps that are distributed on other marketplaces. Also commissions for apps that use the App Store range from 15% to 26%, depending on whether they are eligible for small business programs or use alternative payment methods which is a revised fee structure.

With the increased user choice, users in Japan can now show multiple-choice screens for their chosen search engine and web browser during device setup. Additionally, they can reassign the side button to activate third-party voice assistants rather than Siri and configure third-party navigation apps as defaults.

Another benefit is security safeguards which is being loaded on iPhones, on all apps including those from third-party stores and this must go through a “Notarisation” procedure, which is a basic security check for viruses and basic functionality.

Lastly child safety protections is also another benefits where users under 13 are not allowed to use web links for transactions in any app, and apps in the “Kids” category are not allowed to link to external payment websites in order to safeguard younger users.

When using this alternate payment methods or third-party stores, Apple will provide consumers with cautions. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, said that Fortnite will not yet make a comeback to iOS in Japan, citing both those cautions and Apple’s commission fees. In the US, where Apple just lost an appeal in its continuing antitrust case with Epic, similar warnings and penalties have been in question.

It is good to know that the Japanese law prohibits direct app downloading from websites (sideloading), in contrast to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) of the European Union; apps must still be distributed through an approved marketplace. With the Apple Developer Support page, developers can start incorporating these new features right now.