Apple has announced significant changes to iOS in Japan as it moves to comply with the country’s newly enacted Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). The updates, rolling out with iOS 26.2, introduce new options for developers to distribute apps and process payments, while also adding protections designed to reduce the increased privacy and security risks created by the legislation.
New Era for App Distribution in Japan
Under the MSCA, developers in Japan will now be allowed to distribute iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces, in addition to Apple’s App Store. While the App Store remains Apple’s primary and most secure distribution platform — with full App Review, fraud protection, and parental controls — the new law requires Apple to open the ecosystem further.
To manage the risks associated with third-party marketplaces, Apple will require all alternative app marketplaces to be authorized by Apple and meet ongoing operational requirements. Apps distributed outside the App Store, however, will not benefit from Apple’s full App Review process, potentially exposing users to scams, fraud, or inappropriate content.
Notarization Introduced to Limit Security Risks
To reduce these risks, Apple is introducing Notarization for iOS apps in Japan. This baseline review process applies to all iOS apps, regardless of distribution method, and focuses on ensuring apps function as promised and are free from known malware, viruses, or serious security threats.
Notarization combines automated checks with human review, but Apple stresses that it is less comprehensive than the App Store’s full App Review, meaning users may face higher risks when downloading apps outside the App Store.
More Payment Choices for App Store Users
Apple is also expanding payment options for developers offering digital goods and services on the App Store in Japan. In addition to Apple In-App Purchase, developers will now be able to:
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Integrate alternative payment processing within their apps
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Link users to external websites to complete transactions
These alternatives will always appear alongside Apple In-App Purchase, making it clear when users are transacting through Apple’s system. Purchases made via Apple In-App Purchase will continue to include familiar protections such as refunds, subscription management, and fraud support.
Apple warns, however, that transactions completed through alternative payment methods may expose users to additional privacy and security risks, as Apple will not be able to issue refunds or provide the same level of customer support.
Updated Business Terms and Reduced Commissions
To reflect the new distribution and payment landscape, Apple has introduced updated business terms for iOS apps in Japan. Key highlights include:
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App Store commission reduced to 10% for most developers (including Small Business Program members and subscriptions after the first year), or 21% for others
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Apple payment processing fee of 5% for transactions using Apple In-App Purchase
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Store services commission of 15% (or 10% for eligible developers) on transactions completed via linked websites
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Core Technology Commission of 5% for apps distributed outside the App Store
Apple says that under the new terms, developers selling digital goods and services in Japan will pay the same or less than they do today, while developers that do not sell digital goods will continue to pay no commissions.
Strengthened Protections for Children
Apple has emphasized that kids’ online safety remains a priority despite the expanded ecosystem. With alternative app distribution and payment methods introducing new risks, Apple has worked with Japanese regulators to maintain critical guardrails, including:
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Apps in the Kids category cannot link to websites for transactions
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Users under 18 must pass a parental gate before making purchases using alternative payments
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Users under 13 cannot be directed to external websites for transactions
Apple is also developing a new API to allow parents to monitor and approve purchases made outside Apple In-App Purchase, while continuing to require age ratings across all distribution platforms.
Additional iOS 26.2 Updates for Japanese Users
Alongside the MSCA-driven changes, iOS 26.2 introduces new controls and choices for users in Japan, including:
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A browser and search engine choice screen
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New default controls for navigation apps and app marketplaces
Developers will also gain access to new tools, such as support for alternative browser engines, a new API for voice-based apps using the iPhone side button, and a formal process to request interoperability with core iOS technologies.
Apple’s Position Going Forward
Apple says it will continue engaging with Japanese regulators to strengthen user protections as the MSCA reshapes the iOS ecosystem. While acknowledging that the new law introduces unavoidable risks, the company maintains that its safeguards are essential to keeping iOS “the best and most secure mobile platform available in Japan.”
