Overview
- Developers testing iOS 26.2 in Japan report they can install alternative marketplaces such as AltStore PAL and Epic Games Store and download apps.
- According to posts cited by MacRumors, Fortnite in-app purchases are currently region‑blocked by Epic during beta testing.
- Apple is expected to release iOS 26.2 to the public in December, with reports pointing to roughly December 9–16.
- Japan’s 2024 law requires Apple to allow third‑party app stores and payment providers, and JFTC guidelines issued in August 2025 ban blocking these options starting December 18.
- 9to5Mac reported Japan would become the 29th country to support third‑party iPhone app stores, following Apple’s earlier EU rollout under iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 18.