It might be hard to believe, but this time I actually envy Japan, as they have finally dared to take a tough stance against "Apple"!
Recently, the Japanese Fair Trade Commission passed a bill, clearly requiring Apple to adjust its commission policy in Japan. Starting December 18th, Apple will not only lower the commission rate, but also fully open up third-party app stores and payment channels, and must not suppress third-party applications.
The news quickly made it to the trending list.
People are wondering: Why is Japan, usually seen as a close ally of the United States, suddenly taking action against Apple?
In short, it's all about the "Apple tax." The so-called Apple tax refers to the commission Apple charges for digital transactions within the App Store, which brings in hundreds of billions of dollars in revenue for Apple each year. Therefore, Apple not only restricts third-party payments but also forces the use of its own payment system, all to protect this "money tree."
This time, Japan is serious. Not only have they pushed for a tax rate reduction, but they've also forced Apple to legally clarify: users can download apps through third-party channels and complete payments, and Apple cannot use technical means to hinder competition. This means that Japanese consumers will not only pay less but also enjoy more benefits.
Why is Japan so bold? The reason is simple: the world has long been suffering from the "Apple tax."
South Korea introduced the Telecommunications Business Act in 2021, prohibiting app stores from forcing developers to use designated payment systems. Although this law was initially aimed at countering Google and protecting local Samsung, it also targeted Apple.
The EU has repeatedly fined Apple for antitrust violations, explicitly requiring it to open its ecosystem and reduce commissions. Even in Apple's home country, the United States, a court ruled in a significant judgment this May that Apple must allow third-party app stores to connect, and issued a strict warning: do not delay execution, and appeals cannot suspend it.
But what about here? Some large companies charge up to 30% commission—note, it's 30% of the turnover, not profit. Want to download third-party apps from elsewhere? Forget it.
The same Apple is implementing two different sets of rules in different markets. Consumers are treated differently, like being divided into three categories.
Some may think: This doesn't concern me. Wrong. If developers are charged 30%, they either raise prices for users or bear the cost themselves. In the end, you either pay more, or good apps become fewer, especially for small developers who can't compete.
Now, South Korea, the EU, the US, Japan...一个个 are breaking the monopoly. What about us?
At the core of it, this isn't just about money—it's about choice, fairness, and who will decide the future of our digital world over the next decade.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1851993901364360/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.