Apple and Google under pressure from Japan: new rules for iOS and Android stores
Japanese authorities have passed a law on competition in mobile software, which forces Apple and Google to comply with new rules for the digital stores App Store and Google Play.
Apple and Google have become the first "specific providers", meaning that the new rules directly concern them. According to PocketGamer, this means allowing partner stores, alternative payment methods, promotions outside of platforms, and links to other payment methods.
Companies, like all others on the list, cannot give their applications advantages, must ensure equal access to APIs and device functions, and increase transparency.
These measures could change the mobile store market: developers will be able to sell games and applications outside the App Store and Google Play, set their own prices, and work directly with customers, bypassing device owners.
