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A New Law to Regulate Big Tech


Topic Overview:

A first law has been established in Japan and will take effect on December 18. The aim is to increase competition among companies and reduce the power of Big Tech firms such as Google and Apple. Under the new regulation, Apple and Google must allow third-party app stores and also permit other payment systems. Moreover, users will have the opportunity to choose different search engines and browsers, and different devices will be allowed to work together, such as through AirDrop-like features. Furthermore, fines will be imposed if companies break the rules, although exceptions are allowed for security, privacy, and child protection. Overall, this law is expected to have positive impacts on both consumers and developers. Consumers will have more choices for apps and payment methods, and developers will find it easier to enter the market. On the other hand, companies are concerned about security risks and the lack of clarity in the rules.


　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　My personal view:

Personally,  I was honestly worried that Big Tech companies might leave Japan. However, after thinking about it more, I feel that the law has many advantages and positive effects for both consumers and developers, especially in Japan. As a consumer and a big Apple fan, I have also had some dissatisfaction with Apple’s features. For example, AirDrop works very well between Apple users, but when the other person is not an Apple user, sending pictures or files becomes quite difficult. In those cases, I often have to use email instead, which takes time to upload and send the files. This experience made me realize how limited these features can be, and why giving users more choices could be a good change.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Why I decided to focus on this issue:

I decided to focus on this issue because I use an Apple phone and other digital devices, but I was not aware of the law that Japan has introduced. I think it is important for all of us to understand what changes the law will bring and how it may affect our daily use of technology.


Ninivaggi, G. (2025, December 15). What will change with Japan’s first attempt at regulating Big Tech? The Japan Times. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2025/12/15/tech/new-smartphone-law/


Redirect notice. (n.d.). https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fnewsroom%2F2024%2F09%2Fapple-debuts-iphone-16-pro-and-iphone-16-pro-max%2F&ved=0CBUQjRxqFwoTCMjVyrjDyZEDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAI&opi=89978449





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