TL;DR
- Apple is updating iOS in Japan to comply with the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA).
- Developers gain options for alternative app marketplaces and in-app payment processing.
- New risks to privacy, security, and child safety are acknowledged, with mitigation efforts in place.
- Notarization process introduced for apps outside the App Store.
- iOS 26.2 includes user controls for app marketplaces and payment methods.
What’s New / Why It Matters
Apple has announced significant changes to its iOS operating system in Japan, directly addressing the requirements of the new Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). These updates introduce new avenues for developers, allowing them to distribute applications through alternative marketplaces beyond the App Store and to process in-app payments for digital goods and services outside of Apple’s In-App Purchase system. While these changes aim to comply with the new legislation, Apple emphasizes its commitment to mitigating the associated privacy and security risks for users in Japan.
The MSCA mandates these new options, which Apple states could introduce new avenues for malware, fraud, scams, and privacy risks. The company has collaborated with Japanese regulators to implement safeguards, particularly for younger users, such as a Notarization process for apps distributed outside the App Store and authorization requirements for alternative marketplaces. These measures are presented as essential steps to maintain iOS as a secure mobile platform in Japan.
New Options for Developers
Developers in Japan will now have the choice to distribute their iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces, in addition to the established App Store. These alternative marketplaces will require authorization from Apple and must adhere to ongoing operational requirements. However, Apple cautions that apps downloaded from outside the App Store will not benefit from the same rigorous App Review process, potentially exposing users to increased risks of scams, fraud, abuse, or objectionable content.
To address some of these risks, Apple is implementing a baseline review process called Notarization for all iOS apps distributed outside the App Store. This process, involving automated checks and human review, aims to ensure basic functionality and protect against known malware and security threats. While Notarization is less comprehensive than the App Store’s App Review, it is intended as a critical safeguard.
New Payment Options
For apps distributed on the App Store in Japan, developers will be able to offer alternative payment processing methods alongside Apple’s In-App Purchase. This includes the ability to integrate alternative payment processors or link users to external websites for transaction completion. These options will be presented clearly alongside Apple In-App Purchase, allowing users to distinguish between them.
When users opt for Apple In-App Purchase, they will continue to receive Apple’s standard protections, including refund support, subscription management, and the Report a Problem feature. However, for transactions processed through alternative methods, Apple will have limited ability to issue refunds or assist with customer issues, scams, or fraud. Users may also need to share payment information with additional third parties, potentially introducing new privacy and security concerns.
Impacts to Kids’ Online Safety
Apple highlights its commitment to creating a safe environment for children on the App Store, providing features like age ratings, content restrictions, and parental controls. The introduction of alternative app distribution and payment methods under the MSCA is acknowledged as potentially exposing children to new risks. Apps from outside the App Store may contain illicit content and bypass the stringent review process applied to apps for children.
To mitigate these risks, Apple has worked with Japanese regulators to retain certain guardrails. These include requirements for developers to provide age ratings for all apps, regardless of distribution method, and ongoing monitoring of alternative marketplaces. Apple states it will continue to develop safety features, including Child Accounts, web content filters, and communication safety tools, to help parents protect their children online.
Availability & Pricing
These changes are available to developers starting today as part of the iOS 26.2 release. Developers can find detailed information and resources on the Apple Developer Support page. Pricing for developers under the new business terms for iOS apps in Japan will see commissions on digital goods and services remaining the same or decreasing. Developers not selling digital goods or services will continue to pay no commissions or fees.
Techswire’s Take
Apple’s move to comply with the MSCA in Japan represents a complex balancing act between regulatory demands and its long-standing commitment to user privacy and security. While the introduction of alternative app marketplaces and payment systems offers developers more flexibility, it also introduces potential new vectors for malicious activity. The company’s emphasis on Notarization and enhanced child safety features underscores the inherent risks associated with these changes, suggesting that the user experience, particularly for younger demographics, may become more fragmented and require increased vigilance.