Japan to force Apple to allow third-party browser engines by December

Beyond just requiring Apple to allow third-party app stores, Japan’s new anti-trust regulations will also force Apple to allow third-party browsers on iPhone starting in December.

Japan’s Fair Trade Commission is gearing up to enforce its new Smartphone Act rules that directly impact Apple’s software policies. Central to the changes is Apple’s WebKit-only rule for all iOS browsers.

The new guidelines, translated by Open Web Advocacy, give Apple until December 2025 to remove restrictions that block or hinder third-party browser engines on iOS. That deadline means iPhone users in Japan could see actual alternatives to Safari as early as 2026.

In July, Japan’s Fair Trade Commission finalized updates to the Mobile Software Competition Act, with full enforcement set for December 18, 2025. The rules require Apple to allow third-party app stores, alternative payments, and broader access to hardware features like Face ID and Touch ID.

In the EU, similar rules have allowed third-party engines in theory, but implementation has been slow due to added requirements. Japan’s approach aims to simplify and make adoption more practical for developers.

In May, Japan’s Fair Trade Commission sought public feedback on proposed regulations targeting major tech firms like Apple and Google. By July 29 — just weeks after the consultation period ended — the agency announced it had updated the guidelines under the Mobile Software Competition Act.

Apple argues the changes could undermine user privacy and security. It also objects to giving rivals these technologies without payment, saying it would unfairly benefit competing services.