The Japanese government has enacted a law prohibiting tech giants such as Apple and Google from restricting the distribution of apps on their platforms. In compliance, Apple will be required to allow third-party app stores on iOS devices in the country.
The law also requires Apple and Google to allow developers to use alternative payment systems in Japan.
As reported by Kyodo News, the law will come into effect in 2025. Companies that violate it face a fine of 20% of their platform revenue in Japan (likely annual—Ed.). In case of repeated violations, the fine will increase to 30%.
Epic Games has already announced that thanks to this law, it will release the Epic Games Store on iOS in Japan by the end of next year and publish Fortnite on it.
A big win for mobile gamers and developers: the Japanese government and the Diet have passed a new law to open up mobile app stores!
The Epic Games Store & Fortnite will be coming to iOS in Japan in late 2025 🥳 https://t.co/Jm9QLOoAZ3
— Fortnite (@FortniteGame) June 12, 2024