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iOS 26.2 beta testers in Japan can install third party app stores

Japanese iPhone owners are able to start using alternative app storefronts on their devices, as the first iOS 26.2 developer beta grants permission for them to be installed.

Modern glass-fronted store at dusk, featuring a large illuminated logo, wooden ceiling, interior wooden tables, and trees outside. Several people walk past.
An Apple Store in Japan – Image credit: Apple

The Japan Fair Trade Commission will start to enforce the country’s new Smartphone Act rules in December, forcing Apple to make changes to its software policies. It now appears that Apple is publicly testing one key change in preparation for rule enforcement.