Apple Gets Final Deadline till December to Allow Alternative Browser Engines on iOS under Japan’s new Mobile Software Competition Act. The rule targets Apple’s WebKit-only policy for iOS browsers.
As per the law browsers such as; Chrome, Edge, and Firefox will be using engines like Blink and Gecko (from December). The law aims to promote fair competition and improve user choice.
Key Takeaways:
- Japan to allow non-WebKit browsers on iOS.
- Apple must remove technical restrictions by December.
- EU and UK may follow similar rules.
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Apple Gets Final Deadline till December to Allow Alternative Browser Engines on iOS in Japan
Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act was prepared by the Japan Fair Trade Commission. The law stops Apple from forcing browsers to use WebKit only.
All iOS browsers depend on WebKit as of now that includes Chrome, Opera as well as Firefox. If we talk about Android, Chrome and Edge are dependent on Blink, while Firefox uses Gecko. The new Japanese rule will allow these engines on iPhones.
The law also covers in-app browsers, enabling them to use alternative engines. It clearly states that designated providers cannot block other browser technologies.
Apple has defended WebKit as safer and more private. However, regulators argue that this policy reduces innovation and competition in the browser market.
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In The EU and Other Regions
This is not Apple’s first time facing such rules. Apple updated iOS 17.4 to let non-WebKit browsers work in the EU (back in2024). This was to follow the Digital Markets Act.
That update also allowed downloading apps from outside the App Store in Europe. Users there can install alternative app stores and set new default apps.
Despite the EU change, no major non-WebKit browsers have launched on iOS yet. Apple’s strict regional conditions discouraged Gecko and Blink development. Similar laws may soon appear in the UK, forcing Apple to open its platform further.
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Without Restrictions
Japan’s law is stronger than the EU’s rule. It prevents Apple from adding “unreasonable technical restrictions” for alternative browsers. This ensures developers can create real, independent browser engines.
Also as per the law Apple needs to show a default browser choice screen in Safari. This gives iPhone users more control over their browsing experience.
This move was so wise and therefore The Open Web Advocacy group clapped for Japan’s decision. Experts believe this could push other countries to follow. If implemented effectively, it will increase browser speed, features, and competition.
Japan’s new competition law sets a Final Deadline till December for Apple to finally break Apple’s WebKit monopoly on iOS browsers.
It follows similar moves in the EU and possibly the UK. For users, this means more choice, better performance, and fair competition in mobile browsing.
Written By: Shiny
Publishing Date & Time: 8 August, 2025 at 08:08 PM IST
