New Japan Law Regulates Control of Google, Apple Over App Stores

Dec. 18 will mark the enforcement of a new law aimed at curtailing the dominance of major technology companies and fostering competition in Japan’s technology services market.

Under Japan's new law, Google and Apple will be required to allow third parties to operate independent app stores and offer their own payment options.

But how far does the law go, and what will change for consumers? Gabriele Ninivaggi reported for The Japan Times.

The bill — approved unanimously by Parliament in June 2024 after brief deliberations — is Japan’s first full-fledged attempt to regulate Big Tech.

Under the new law, Google and Apple will be required to allow third parties to operate independent app stores and offer their own payment options.

While a previous law enacted in 2021 urged platforms to improve their business practices and regularly report their activities, the new bill goes further and could significantly alter the competitive landscape.