Apple has opened the door to third-party app stores in Japan, but the long-running dispute with Epic Games continues. While the company claims it now complies with local antitrust rules, Epic argues that the changes do not create genuine competition and keep Apple firmly in control.
Apple has announced a new set of App Store rules for Japan to comply with the requirements of the Mobile Software Competition Act. Developers can now distribute apps through alternative app stores and use different payment options. However, Apple still blocks direct app downloads from the web. You can only install iPhone apps through the App Store or approved third-party stores.
What Apple changed in Japan
Apple framed the update as a major shift. Developers gain more flexibility, but the system remains tightly managed. The company says these limits protect users from fraud, malware, and privacy risks. According to Apple, opening iOS further would expose people to scams and unsafe software.
Epic says the rules are still anti-competitive
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney strongly disagrees. In a post on X, he said the new rules make fair competition impossible and block Fortnite from returning to iOS in Japan.
According to Epic Games, Apple still charges high fees that discourage developers from using alternative systems. Sweeney said these charges defeat the purpose of Japan’s antitrust law.
“Sadly, Fortnite will not return to iOS in Japan in 2025 as promised. Apple was required to open up iOS to competing stores today, and instead of doing so honestly, they have launched another travesty of obstruction and lawbreaking.”
Fees and warning screens under fire
Sweeney also criticized Apple’s payment structure. He said Apple takes a 21 percent fee on third-party in-app payments and 15 percent on purchases made on the web. Epic claims courts in the United States have already ruled against similar practices.
“They’re charging a competition-crushing 21 percent junk fee on third-party in-app payments, and 15 percent for purchases made on the web.”
Epic also objected to new warning screens. According to Sweeney, these messages scare users by suggesting that payments outside Apple’s system put their privacy and money at risk.
“They’re introducing new anticompetitive warning screens meant to mislead customers.”
New reporting rules raise more concerns
Another flashpoint is a new 5% fee on revenue from apps distributed through competing stores. Epic says Apple will also monitor transactions using mandatory reporting tools, even when Apple has no role in the payment.
“This is an egregious Apple imposition on distribution and payments they have no involvement with.”
Complaint planned with Japanese regulators
Epic says it will file a formal complaint with the Japanese Fair Trade Commission. The company argues that Apple’s control over fees, warnings, and reporting blocks honest competition between app stores.
This dispute mirrors an earlier fight in the United States, where courts accused Apple of ignoring the intent of a ruling on external payments. That case remains unresolved, and now Japan has become the next front in a global battle over who really controls the App Store.
