Apple and Google maintain control over the smartphone market with their respective operating systems. These two companies, which dominate the smartphone market, currently require developers to use their app stores. However, Japan’s new decision regarding app stores could change this situation.
Critical decision for the App Store and Play Store!
During a recent panel, the Japanese government decided that Apple and Google’s smartphone app stores have had a negative impact on competition. These two companies, which dominate the smartphone operating system market, will now be required to allow users to download applications using services other than their own app stores.
With this decision, Japan expects to promote competition and anticipates a decrease in app prices. This regulation, prepared under the leadership of Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, is planned to take effect next year.
As known, Apple prevents iPhone users from downloading applications without using their app store. 97% of Android users also download applications through the Google Play Store. Furthermore, both companies currently prohibit third-party app providers from accepting payments from application users through any payment platform other than Apple’s or Google’s.
In addition to all this, app providers have complained about Apple and Google’s high commissions, which can reach up to 30%, for such payments. With the new regulation, developers will be able to offer their applications without the need for the App Store and Play Store, provided that sufficient security and privacy protection measures are taken. Furthermore, both companies will be obligated to allow users to make payments through third-party platforms.
The Japanese government, which has taken precautions regarding the App Store and Play Store, has also made a new decision regarding pre-installed applications. From now on, both companies will be obliged to allow users to easily uninstall applications.
With this decision, Japan may put Apple and Google in a difficult position. On the other hand, there may be a significant decrease in app prices due to the reduction in costs for developers. What are your thoughts on Apple and Google’s app store? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section.
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