Japan's Antitrust Laws to Allow Third-Party Biometric Authentication

Published Date : 7/31/2025 

Japan is set to implement new antitrust laws in 2025, requiring Apple and Google to grant third-party developers access to OS functions like voice calls and biometric authentication. This move aims to break the tech giants' monopoly and promote a more competitive app market. 

The global shift away from U.S. dominance in technology is influencing policy decisions worldwide, and Japan is no exception. The country is taking significant steps to challenge the monopolies of major tech firms, particularly Silicon Valley giants Apple Inc. and Google LLC. New antitrust laws in Japan aim to level the playing field for third-party developers by opening up access to essential OS functions, including biometric authentication.

Japan Today reports that the guidelines issued by the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) focus on preventing discriminatory treatment of app stores not operated by Apple and Google. These two companies control over 90 percent of Japan’s smartphone operating system market, with almost all app traffic flowing through their respective stores.

In 2024, Japan's parliament enacted these antitrust laws to enhance market access for third-party developers. The final guidelines list 100 specific examples of violations, emphasizing the need for transparency and fair competition. Significantly, the law mandates that app developers be granted access to OS functions such as voice calls and biometric authentication.

Granting developers access to OS biometric authentication could unlock a plethora of new use cases for native device biometrics. OS-based biometric systems are among the most familiar and trusted forms of biometric authentication for many users. This move could significantly boost user trust and adoption of biometric technologies.

Another notable provision in the law prevents Apple and Google from using data obtained from their app stores or operating systems in their own products or services. According to Kyodo News, this measure aims to protect user data and ensure fair competition.

Apple, predictably, opposes the law, arguing that it undermines privacy and security. The company claims that the law forces it to provide its technology and services to competitors free of charge, potentially creating new risks. However, the financial incentives for opening up the market are clear. Japan’s domestic app market is valued at about 2.4 trillion yen (16.2 billion dollars) from in-app purchases alone. More competition could lead to lower prices for consumers and a more vibrant digital economy.

While opening up native biometrics to developers could necessitate new regulations, this is likely not the primary concern for Apple. The new laws are set to take full effect in December 2025, and they represent a significant step towards a more equitable and competitive tech landscape in Japan. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What are the new antitrust laws in Japan targeting?

A: The new antitrust laws in Japan target the monopolies of major tech firms like Apple and Google, specifically focusing on app stores and operating systems.

Q: How will these laws benefit third-party developers?

A: The laws will require Apple and Google to grant third-party developers access to essential OS functions, including voice calls and biometric authentication, promoting a more competitive app market.

Q: What are the potential benefits for consumers?

A: More competition in the app market could lead to lower prices and a more vibrant digital economy, benefiting consumers.

Q: What is Apple's stance on these new laws?

A: Apple opposes the laws, arguing that they undermine privacy and security and force it to provide its technology and services to competitors free of charge.

Q: When will these laws take full effect?

A: The new antitrust laws are set to take full effect in December 2025. 

More Related Topics :