In response to Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google-parent Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) have announced significant changes. Japan's MSCA Opens App Store CompetitionThe MSCA, which took effect on Thursday, introduces new options that allow developers to distribute apps through alternative app stores and handle payments for digital goods and services outside Apple's in-app purchase system.These changes, while providing new opportunities for develope ...

Group 1 - Microsoft has supported Epic Games in its legal dispute with Apple, claiming that Apple's restrictions have hindered Microsoft's efforts to establish an Xbox mobile store [1][3] - The district court's injunction allows Apple to maintain in-app exclusivity but should enable Microsoft to offer a solution by launching its own online store for in-app purchases [2] - Microsoft argues that Apple's policies have limited its ability to provide functionalities such as buying and streaming games on the Xbox app for iOS users [5] Group 2 - Apple is facing scrutiny from US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who has referred the company for potential criminal charges for violating a 2021 injunction [3] - Judge Rogers has demanded an explanation from Apple regarding its non-compliance with the court-ordered injunction and has warned that an Apple official must appear in court if the issue is not resolved [4] - Recent rulings have imposed new restrictions on Apple, including a directive to stop charging a 27% fee on rival developers and to remove restrictions on linking to external purchase options [10]