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Japan Fair Trade Commission Closes App Store Investigation

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Apple announced an upcoming update to the App Store, allowing developers of 'reader' apps to link to external websites for account management, following a resolution with the Japan Fair Trade Commission. This change enables users to set up and manage their accounts outside the app. Apple will implement this globally for all reader apps, ensuring user safety remains a priority. The update is part of Apple's broader strategy to enhance developer flexibility and user experience, building on recent initiatives like the News Partner Program.

Positive
  • Allows reader app developers to link to external websites for account management, enhancing user experience.
  • Represents a significant step in compliance with regulatory bodies while maintaining user trust and safety.
Negative
  • None.

Apple will let developers of “reader” apps around the world link to an external website to set up or manage an account beginning early next year

CUPERTINO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Apple® today announced an update coming to the App Store® that closes an investigation by the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC). The update will allow developers of “reader” apps to include an in-app link to their website for users to set up or manage an account. While the agreement was made with the JFTC, Apple will apply this change globally to all reader apps on the store. Reader apps provide previously purchased content or content subscriptions for digital magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music, and video.

To ensure a safe and seamless user experience, the App Store’s guidelines require developers to sell digital services and subscriptions using Apple’s in-app payment system. Because developers of reader apps do not offer in-app digital goods and services for purchase, Apple agreed with the JFTC to let developers of these apps share a single link to their website to help users set up and manage their account.

Before the change goes into effect in early 2022, Apple will update its guidelines and review process to make sure users of reader apps continue to have a safe experience on the App Store. While in-app purchases through the App Store commerce system remain the safest and most trusted payment methods for users, Apple will also help developers of reader apps protect users when they link them to an external website to make purchases.

“Trust on the App Store is everything to us. The focus of the App Store is always to create a safe and secure experience for users, while helping them find and use great apps on the devices they love,” said Phil Schiller, Apple Fellow who oversees the App Store. “We have great respect for the Japan Fair Trade Commission and appreciate the work we’ve done together, which will help developers of reader apps make it easier for users to set up and manage their apps and services, while protecting their privacy and maintaining their trust.”

This update follows a number of changes to the App Store announced last week, which give developers more flexibility and resources to reach their customers, tailor their price points, and grow their businesses. Last week, Apple also launched the News Partner Program to support local journalism and help news organizations on the App Store.

With the update announced today, the App Store continues to evolve to be an even better marketplace for users and developers alike. Already, Apple provides more than 30 million registered developers with all the tools, resources, and support they need to create and deliver software to over a billion customers around the world on Apple platforms.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV. Apple’s five software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, and iCloud. Apple’s more than 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

NOTE TO EDITORS: For additional information visit Apple Newsroom (www.apple.com/newsroom), or call Apple’s Media Helpline at (408) 974-2042.

© 2021 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, and App Store are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Fred Sainz

Apple

sainz@apple.com

669-227-0492

Peter Ajemian

Apple

pajemian@apple.com

212-822-9882

Source: Apple Inc.

FAQ

What is Apple AAPL's new update regarding reader apps?

Apple announced that it will allow developers of reader apps to link to external websites for account management, effective early next year.

How will this update affect Apple AAPL's App Store policies?

The update modifies App Store policies to permit reader apps to share a link for account management, while maintaining user safety standards.

What regulatory body was involved in Apple's AAPL recent App Store changes?

The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) was involved in discussions leading to the recent changes for reader apps.

When does the new Apple AAPL app update take effect?

The update is expected to take effect in early 2022.

Why is Apple AAPL allowing external links for reader apps?

To enhance user experience by making it easier for users to set up and manage their accounts, while complying with regulatory requirements.

Apple Inc.

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