Ddos 
Apple has recently released the iOS 26.2 beta for developers, and within this version, some developers have discovered indications that Apple may soon allow users in Japan to install alternative app stores and download apps or games through them.
According to developer @Tzzlala, after installing the iOS 26.2 beta in Japan, users are able to experiment with third-party marketplaces such as AltStore PAL and the Epic Games Store, from which they can download applications and games directly.
For years, Apple has restricted users to downloading software exclusively through the Apple App Store (excluding installations via enterprise certificates). However, due to new European Union regulations, Apple has already been compelled to open its platform within the EU — allowing users to install alternative app stores and notarized applications outside of its own ecosystem.
In June 2024, Japan’s National Diet passed a law requiring Apple to permit third-party app stores and payment service providers on the iPhone. The legislation aims to curb the monopolistic power of major technology companies such as Apple in the smartphone market.
Subsequently, in August 2025, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) issued new Mobile Software Competition Guidelines, mandating that platform operators like Apple and Google must not block or restrict the use of alternative app stores or payment systems within their mobile operating systems.
These new regulations are scheduled to take effect on December 18, 2025, likely prompting Apple to enable support for third-party app stores in Japan. Meanwhile, Epic Games has announced plans to bring its hit title Fortnite back to the Japanese iOS platform by the end of 2025.
Several years ago, Epic had introduced its own in-app payment system to bypass Apple’s commission structure, leading Apple to immediately remove Fortnite from the App Store for violating developer policies — a move that ignited a long and highly publicized legal battle between the two companies.
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