Oh, Apple. Just when everyone thinks iOS is locked down forever, they go and crack the door open, but only after adding three more locks and a security camera.
On December 17, 2025, Apple announced major iOS changes in Japan to comply with the country’s Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA).
The headline, developers will be able to distribute iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces, and they can also process payments outside Apple’s In-App Purchase or send you to the web to buy digital goods.
And yes, Apple is still very much Apple about it.
They’re putting in extra protections to reduce the privacy and security chaos that can come with third-party stores, including Notarization for iOS apps and an authorization process for marketplaces.
They’re also adding kid-focused guardrails, like blocking certain web purchase links in kids apps, and requiring a parental gate for under-18 users when apps use alternative payments.
Here’s the part that makes me laugh a little, this also ships with iOS 26.2 in Japan, including things like a browser choice screen, search engine choice, and new default controls for navigation apps and app marketplaces.
My take, this is the new normal for Apple worldwide.
Apple clearly wants to comply with regulations without turning iPhones into the Wild West, and honestly, I get it. I love options, but I love not getting scammed even more.
If you’re a developer, Japan just became way more interesting overnight.