Beyond the App Store: iOS 26.2 Beta Teases Sideloading Support for Japan

Apple’s iOS 26.2 beta for developers reportedly includes indications that users in Japan may soon be able to install third‑party app stores and download apps through them. According to @Tzzlala, after installing the beta in Japan, users can experiment with third‑party marketplaces such as AltStore PAL and the Epic Games Store to download applications and games directly.

The piece notes that for years Apple restricted software to the Apple App Store, but EU regulations have already pushed Apple to open its platform within the bloc. It also highlights Japan’s 2024 National Diet law requiring Apple to permit third‑party app stores and payment providers, with the Japan Fair Trade Commission’s 2025 Mobile Software Competition Guidelines further mandating that platform operators not block alternative stores or payment systems, taking effect on 18 December 2025.

Epic Games has announced plans to bring Fortnite back to the Japanese iOS market by the end of 2025, a move tied to past actions where Fortnite was removed from the App Store for violating developer policies.