苹果摇钱树再被砍，多米诺骨牌要倒下了？｜硅谷观察

Group 1 - Apple Japan announced it will open third-party app stores and external payment channels in response to Japan's new Mobile Software Competition Law, marking a significant shift in its app distribution and payment control [2][21] - This change dismantles Apple's previously strong ecosystem, which has been a key competitive advantage since the launch of the iOS ecosystem in 2008, allowing Apple to maintain a stable user base and significant market share [22][24] - Apple's service revenue has reached $79.6 billion, accounting for over 25% of total revenue, with expectations that it will exceed $100 billion this year, highlighting the importance of this segment to Apple's profitability [24] Group 2 - The new law in Japan, effective December 18, 2024, requires Apple to allow developers to use third-party app stores and payment methods, which is a significant loss of control for the company [25] - The commission structure for Apple in Japan has been adjusted, with third-party payments now incurring fees between 10% to 21%, while purchases through third-party app stores will incur a 5% core technology fee, a substantial reduction from the previous 30% standard [25][30] - The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) has set a precedent for such regulatory changes, requiring similar adjustments from Apple, including allowing sideloading and third-party payment options [27][29] Group 3 - Apple has faced significant fines from the EU, including a €5 billion penalty for violating the DMA, which restricts its ability to limit developers from informing users about alternative payment options [31][34] - The ongoing legal battles with Epic Games and the U.S. Department of Justice highlight the increasing scrutiny Apple faces regarding its App Store practices and the so-called "Apple tax" [39][40] - The global trend of regulatory scrutiny against Apple is expanding, with countries like the UK, South Korea, and others initiating investigations or legal actions against the company's app store practices [40]