Apple, Google app-store, payment alternatives see little uptake in Japan survey
( August 26, 2026, 03:24 GMT | Official Statement) -- MLex Summary: A survey of Japanese app developers found little uptake of alternative app stores and payment options since the country's smartphone competition law took effect, with high fees and limited user numbers among the main reasons cited. The survey, conducted by eight industry groups including the Mobile Content Forum, found that more than 90 percent of respondents weren't using alternative app stores or alternative in-app payment options on either Apple's iOS or Google's Android. In a separate opinion paper released Wednesday, the MCF said some terms imposed by Apple and Google may violate the Mobile Software Competition Act and called for stronger enforcement by the Japan Fair Trade Commission.The statements are attached (in Japanese). ...
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