Oh, Apple, you sneaky geniuses. Just when we thought the App Store rules were carved into titanium, Apple goes and rewires the playbook in Japan.
On December 17, 2025, Apple announced iOS changes in Japan to comply with the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA). The headline, developers can distribute apps through alternative app marketplaces, and they can also offer alternative payment methods inside App Store apps.
Translation for normal humans, the App Store is still the default comfy couch, but Japan is getting a more “choose your own adventure” setup for downloading apps and paying for digital stuff.
Now here’s the very Apple part of all this, they are not just flinging the doors open and walking away. Apple is pushing protections like Notarization for iOS apps, marketplace authorization requirements, and extra guardrails aimed at reducing scams, fraud, and the general “why is this app asking for my soul” energy.
I’m honestly torn, because more choice for users and developers is cool, but the App Store’s big superpower has always been that review and safety pipeline. If this change spreads, Apple’s going to have to keep threading the needle between “open” and “secure,” which is basically their whole personality.
Still, if you’re in Japan and you want more flexibility, iOS 26.2 is shaping up to be one of those updates that quietly changes the vibe.