Japan’s Federal Commerce Fee | Picture Credit score: Horocassi234 on Wikimedia Commons
Past simply requiring Apple to permit third-party app shops, Japan’s new anti-trust laws may also pressure Apple to permit third-party browsers on iPhone beginning in December.
Japan’s Honest Commerce Fee is gearing as much as implement its new Smartphone Act guidelines that straight influence Apple’s software program insurance policies. Central to the modifications is Apple’s WebKit-only rule for all iOS browsers.
The brand new tips, translated by Open Net Advocacy, give Apple till December 2025 to take away restrictions that block or hinder third-party browser engines on iOS. That deadline means iPhone customers in Japan may see precise alternate options to Safari as early as 2026.
In July, Japan’s Honest Commerce Fee finalized updates to the Cellular Software program Competitors Act, with full enforcement set for December 18, 2025. The principles require Apple to permit third-party app shops, various funds, and broader entry to {hardware} options like Face ID and Contact ID.
Within the EU, related guidelines have allowed third-party engines in concept, however implementation has been gradual because of added necessities. Japan’s method goals to simplify and make adoption extra sensible for builders.
In Might, Japan’s Honest Commerce Fee sought public suggestions on proposed laws concentrating on main tech corporations like Apple and Google. By July 29 — simply weeks after the session interval ended — the company introduced it had up to date the rules beneath the Cellular Software program Competitors Act.
Apple argues the modifications may undermine person privateness and safety. It additionally objects to giving rivals these applied sciences with out fee, saying it might unfairly profit competing companies.
