According to the latest information from Nikkei Asia, the Fair Trade Commission in Japan is working on introducing new regulations that would require Apple to allow the installation of external apps on iOS devices. This decision stems from the recent resolution by the European Union, which ordered Apple to enable the installation of external apps by 2024. Until now, Apple has categorically prohibited such practices, but coding found in the iOS 17 beta versions suggests that the company may be preparing to introduce this feature. However, there is a possibility that Apple will limit access to the installation of external apps only in markets where it is legally required.
The regulations planned by Japan’s Fair Trade Commission cover a range of areas, including app stores, payment systems, and search engines. In addition to allowing users to install external apps, these regulations require Apple to allow the use of external payment systems. Such a change could lead to a reduction in Apple’s revenue from app sales and in-app purchases.
These regulations will not only apply to Apple but also to Google. Although Google has always allowed the installation of external apps on its platform, its revenue from in-app sales may also decrease.
The installation of external apps, also known as “sideloading,” is a common practice on other major platforms such as Windows, MacOS, and Android. Unlike iOS, which was initially designed as a closed platform, other systems have always supported the installation of external apps. Therefore, the Apple app economy has flourished thanks to its control over app distribution.
While the introduction of external app installation could mark the end of an era for Apple, it should not be seen as a disastrous event for the company. Rather, it represents a natural step towards greater openness of the iOS system. Although Apple has tried to control this process, regulations from the European Union and potentially Japan may prove challenging to accept. Nevertheless, Apple can use this situation as an opportunity to enhance the overall user experience.
Furthermore, users will benefit from the installation of external apps, as it will allow them to easily access apps from various platforms and make use of more affordable prices in apps. It remains to be seen whether regulations in the United States will move in the same direction.
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The source of the article is from the blog toumai.es