The European Digital Market Act (DMA), which has officially come into effect, has caused headaches for many tech companies, including Apple. The goal of the act is to create a level playing field and reduce the power of gateways to the internet, such as Big Tech.

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The App Store could be split in two, serving Europe and the rest of the world . (Image: 9to5mac)

DMA will force Apple to allow users to download apps from third-party app stores, instead of just from the App Store as usual (sideloading). Additionally, third-party apps will also be allowed to use third-party payment platforms for in-app purchases.

According to Bloomberg , the iPhone manufacturer has been preparing for this date since 2023 and expects to implement it in the next few weeks. The deadline for companies to comply with the regulation is March 7th. Last year, Vice President of Software Craig Federighi acknowledged that Apple must comply with EU regulations.

However, the change does not apply to all iPhone and iPad users as it is only happening in Europe.

This means Apple will split the App Store into two versions, one for EU member countries and one for the rest of the world. This appears to be aimed at making it easier for Apple to comply with EU regulations without impacting other markets.

In 2023, the 9to5mac blog reported that iOS 16.2 introduced a new internal system that allows Apple to restrict system features based on a user's location. This system could be used to ensure that only users in the EU can download apps from third-party app stores to their devices. If required, Apple could "flip this switch" to enable sideloading in many other countries.

According to Nikkie , Japan is also preparing antitrust regulations to force Apple to allow sideloading in iOS. The bill is expected to be submitted to Parliament this year and focuses on four areas: app marketplaces and payments, search, browsers, and operating systems. If approved, Japan's Fair Trade Commission will be able to fine companies that violate the new law.

In 2020, the Japanese government began investigating Google, Apple, Amazon, and Facebook over antitrust concerns. That same year, many Japanese developers expressed dissatisfaction with the App Store's business model. In 2023, Japanese regulators completed their research and concluded that the mobile app market was dominated by Apple and Google.

In addition, the US Department of Justice also appears ready to force Apple to allow sideloading of apps on iPhones and iPads.

(According to 9to5mac)