For years, Apple’s App Store has been the only official way to install apps on iPhones and iPads, sparking debates over monopolistic practices, high fees, and limited user choice. With the launch of iOS 26.2, Apple has finally taken a historic step: opening iOS to third-party app stores in a regulated environment. This change has triggered global discussions among users, developers, and regulators about whether similar shifts could affect other markets.
Which Countries Have Opened iOS to Third-Party App Stores?
So far, Apple has officially opened third-party app stores in two regions:s. Japan is currently the first non-EU country where this change has gone live.
| Country / Region | Legal Basis | iOS Version |
|---|---|---|
| European Union (EU) | Digital Markets Act (DMA) | iOS 17.4+ |
| Japan | Japan Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) | iOS 26.2+ |
Supplementary Notes :
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EU: Allows alternative app stores, supports non-WebKit browsers, and charges a flat €0.50 Core Technology Fee (CTF) per install.
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Japan: Allows third-party app stores and uses a revenue-based 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC). iOS 26.2 also provides system-level freedoms, such as using the Side Button to launch third-party voice assistants and the ability to set default browsers or navigation apps freely.
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Japan Opens iOS to Third-Party App Stores
Japan’s iOS 26.2 update allows alternative marketplaces to operate legally on iPhones. Users can now install apps outside Apple’s official App Store, but marketplaces must comply with Apple’s security and notarization requirements.
1. AltStore PAL Launch
AltStore PAL was announced on December 17, 2025, and officially launched alongside iOS 26.2 on December 18, 2025. This seamless rollout leveraged the team’s experience from EU operations, making Japan the first non-EU market with a fully functional third-party iOS app store. Users must explicitly authorize marketplace access before installing apps.
2. Core Technology Commission (CTC)
Apple replaced the EU-style Core Technology Fee (CTF) with a 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC) for third-party app stores.
| Feature | European Union (DMA) | Japan (MSCA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sideloading Method | Web & Third-Party Stores | Third-Party Stores Only |
| Fee Model | €0.50 Core Tech Fee (CTF) | 5% Core Tech Commission (CTC) |
| Default Browser | Mandatory choice screen | Choice screen + Engine freedom |
| Hardware Access | NFC / Payments | Side Button / Voice Assistant |
Unlike the EU's flat-rate Core Technology Fee (CTF) of €0.50 per install, Japan’s 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC) marks a shift toward a revenue-based model, which many developers find more sustainable for free or low-cost utility apps. Japan’s model operates as a dual-choice system — developers can remain in the App Store with standard 10–21% fees, or move entirely to third-party stores and pay only 5% for Apple’s core technology support.
3. Epic Games / Fortnite Situation
Despite the legal changes, not all developers have embraced the shift. On December 19, 2025, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple’s 5% CTC as a “junk fee.” As a result, Fortnite is not returning to iOS in Japan before the end of 2025, highlighting ongoing tensions between Apple and developers.
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Shop NowWhy This Matters for Users Everywhere
Even if you are outside Japan or the EU, these developments are highly relevant:
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For US Users: The DOJ vs. Apple lawsuit is ongoing, and Japan’s 5% CTC fee is being discussed in Washington as a potential settlement template.
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For UK / Australia Users: Upcoming Digital Markets acts (DMCC) may bring similar policies; iOS 26.2 serves as a sneak peek of the future iPhone experience.
Japan’s iOS market is now a real-world preview of potential global changes, and the choices Apple makes here could ripple worldwide.
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How to Get Started (For Japanese Users)
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Set your iPhone region to Japan
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Update to iOS 26.2 or later
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Visit a third-party marketplace website, e.g., AltStore PAL
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Download the marketplace app and approve Marketplace authorization
Once authorized, you can install apps outside the App Store.
Join the Discussion
Apple’s opening of iOS to third-party app stores is historic, but opinions are divided.
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Would you switch to a third-party store for a 10% discount on your favorite game?
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Is Apple’s 5% “Core Technology Commission” a fair compromise or just a “junk fee” under a different name?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
