The European Digital Markets Act (DMA) has officially come into effect, causing headaches for many technology companies, including Apple. The goal of the law is to create a level playing field and reduce the power of Internet gatekeepers like Big Tech.

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

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

According to Bloomberg , the iPhone maker has been preparing for this day since 2023 and plans to implement it in the coming weeks. The deadline for companies to comply with the regulations is March 7. Last year, software vice president Craig Federighi admitted 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.

That means Apple will split the App Store into two versions, one for EU member states and one for the rest of the world, apparently to make it easier for Apple to comply with EU regulations without affecting other markets.

In 2023, the blog 9to5mac reported that iOS 16.2 introduces a new internal system that will allow 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 marketplaces onto their devices. If requested, Apple could “flip the switch” to enable sideloading in other countries.

According to Nikkie , Japan is also preparing antitrust regulations that would force Apple to allow sideloading in iOS. The bill is expected to be submitted to the Diet this year and will focus on four areas: app stores and payments, search, browsers, and operating systems. If approved, the Japan Fair Trade Commission will be able to impose fines on 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 study and concluded that the mobile app market was dominated by Apple and Google.

In addition, the US Department of Justice also seems ready to force Apple to allow sideloading of applications on iPhone and iPad.

(According to 9to5mac)