Six hundred companies in Japan, represented by seven IT industry groups, want Apple to eliminate commissions for alternative app stores and external payments. The demand comes after Apple implemented changes under Mobile Software Competition Law, which mandated alternative marketplaces. Developers claim the current fee structure offers "no economic incentive" compared to Apple's traditional model.

Apple's Japanese system allows developers to pay fees between 5% and 21% instead of the standard 30% or 15% commission, depending on services selected. However, combined with credit card processing, this can prove as expensive as the original system. The Japanese developers point to the US Epic vs Apple case, where an injunction currently allows external payments without Apple's cut.

Apple maintains it deserves compensation for access to its ecosystem, arguing it built the infrastructure that facilitates app sales. The company's commission practices face ongoing regulatory challenges worldwide. The Japanese developers seek parity with US developers who temporarily benefit from the Epic injunction, despite the fact it may be reversed on appeal.

This global pressure reflects a broader tension between tech giants and developers over app store economics. Apple has consistently fought to maintain its commission structure, with courts generally agreeing the company deserves compensation but disagreeing on the appropriate amount. The Japanese situation mirrors similar complaints from EU developers over alternative marketplace fees.