Apple is facing renewed antitrust scrutiny in Japan as regulators move to examine the company’s business practices under the country’s tightening digital competition rules. The investigation is being led by the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) and focuses on Apple’s control over the iOS ecosystem, particularly the App Store.
The probe is linked to Japan’s upcoming Smartphone Software Competition Act, which targets dominant platform operators and aims to improve fairness in app distribution, payment systems, and access to device features. Apple has reportedly been flagged as a key player under the law due to its influence over mobile software and services.
Regulators are expected to assess whether Apple’s App Store policies, including commission structures and restrictions on alternative payment methods or app marketplaces, limit competition or disadvantage developers. Feedback from app developers and users is also expected to play a role in the review.
While Apple has not officially commented on the latest investigation, the move adds to growing global pressure on the company, following similar regulatory actions in the EU and other regions. Any findings could force Apple to adjust its App Store rules in Japan in the coming years.
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