iPhone Open for Business: Apple Launches Alternative App Stores in Japan to Meet New Laws
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Safety First? Notarization and the New “Parental Gate” System
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Apple just made a historic move in Japan. The thing is, for the first time outside of Europe, iPhone users in Japan can now download apps from stores that aren’t the official App Store.
Actually, it’s all thanks to the “Mobile Software Competition Act.” Specifically, the Japanese government wanted to break the 30% commission monopoly that’s been around for years.
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As a result, developers in Japan can now launch their own marketplaces. Consequently, this could mean cheaper apps and more variety for users (let’s be real, the “walled garden” is getting a few new gates).
And here’s the kicker. The new fee structure is a massive win for big developers.
Basically, if a developer uses an alternative store, they only pay Apple a 5% “Core Technology Commission.” Instead of the usual 30% bite, they get to keep way more of their revenue. In fact, even for those sticking to the official App Store, the base commission has been slashed to 21% for many. And then Y followed. Apple also added a 5% fee for those who still want to use Apple’s own payment processing.
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Apple’s New Fee Structure in Japan (Effective Dec 18, 2025)
| Distribution Method | Base Commission | Payment Fee |
| Alternative Marketplace | 5% | 0% (Developer handles it) |
| App Store (Standard) | 21% | + 5% for Apple IAP |
| App Store (Small Business) | 10% | + 5% for Apple IAP |
| External Web Links | 15% | 0% |
Moreover, Apple is worried about security. Specifically, they’ve introduced “Notarization,” which is a baseline check for malware and fraud.
Actually, they aren’t reviewing these third-party apps as strictly as their own. As a result, they’ve added a “Parental Gate” for anyone under 18. Consequently, kids can’t just go around downloading unvetted apps or making external purchases without a parent or guardian stepping in (those too).
The thing is, Japan’s version of this law is a bit different than the EU’s. In fact, Apple still gets to authorize which companies can even start an alternative store.
Basically, it’s “controlled openness.” Instead of a tidy wrap-up, keep in mind that other tech giants like Google are also making similar changes this week. And then Y followed. We’ll likely see major Japanese gaming companies launch their own stores early in 2026.
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