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Apple has reached an agreement with the Japanese regulator to allow developers of “reader” applications to log into their own websites so that users can manage their accounts. The change will take effect in early 2022.
Apple has come under scrutiny in several markets, including the United States and South Korea, over how it taxes its own payment systems on developers, with critics accusing it of anti-competitive practices.
In this latest development, regulations in Japan, from the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC), will require Apple to change its policies on playback apps so that users purchase content. Playback apps include not only playback apps, but any app that accesses “purchased” or subscribed media in the cloud for users of the app to consume. It covers digital magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music, and video and the list includes Netflix, Spotify, Audible, and Dropbox.
Before the change takes effect next year, Apple will continue to update its guidelines and review process for reader app users, according to its statement.
Apple will also apply this change globally to all reading apps in the store.
“We have great respect for the Japanese Fair Trade Commission and appreciate the work we have done together, which will help developers of reading applications make it easier for users to configure and manage their applications and services, while protecting their privacy and preserving their trust, ”Phill Schiller, who oversees Apple’s App Stores.
Apple seems to take into account the scrutiny it faces among lawmakers, developers, and the public. Last week, it announced several updates that give developers more flexibility for their customers, and the company also launched a news partner program to support local journalists.
Although developers and others have been screaming for years against restrictive app store practices, Apple has long argued that it is putting its policies in place to protect consumers and create more cohesive user experiences.
Either way, as technology, payment systems and consumer habits have evolved, these criticisms have only intensified. In this regard, Asia and the United States are not the only markets where lawmakers are finally starting to take more action on the issue. In Australia, the Competitions and Consumer Commission is also considering regulations regarding digital payment systems – rules that would impact not only Apple, but other dominant players like Google and WeChat as well.
And just this week, South Korea became the first country to stop Apple and Google from imposing their own payment system on in-app purchases.
Apple has over 30 million registered developers who create iOS apps.
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