Australian judge orders Apple to allow third-party app stores on iPhones

An Australian federal judge has ordered Apple to modify its App Store regulations, permitting iPhone users in Australia to install applications from third-party stores. According to 9to5Mac, the ruling mandates these changes take effect by March 1, 2027. This decision emerges from a protracted antitrust dispute between Apple and Epic Games, which has challenged the tech giant’s control over software distribution on its devices.

What does the ruling require Apple to change?

The court order compels Apple to allow the installation of apps from sources other than its official App Store for users located in Australia. This represents a significant shift from the company’s long-standing closed ecosystem model. The mandate specifically targets the restriction on alternative app marketplaces, forcing a structural change in how software can be delivered to iOS devices within that jurisdiction.

When do these changes take effect?

The deadline for compliance is set for March 1, 2027. This timeline provides a specific window before the new rules must be implemented. However, the immediate operational impact may be delayed because Apple has stated it plans to appeal the decision. The appeal process could extend the period before any actual changes to the user experience occur.

Why is this happening now?

The ruling is the result of a years-long antitrust battle initiated by Epic Games against Apple. The legal conflict centers on Apple’s control over its App Store. The judge’s decision follows this long-running dispute, resulting in an order for Apple to make sweeping changes to its App Store rules. The outcome reflects the judicial response to the challenges raised by Epic Games regarding platform restrictions.

What comes next for Apple and users?

Apple has confirmed it intends to appeal the federal judge’s decision. This means the mandate to allow third-party app stores may not be enforced immediately. Security teams should monitor legal developments closely, as the appeal could alter the timeline or scope of the required changes. The outcome will determine whether the Australian market sees an open iOS ecosystem in 2027.

Questions to ask your suppliers

Security operations teams should immediately review their mobile device management policies to see how they handle software from non-official sources. Ask your mobile vendors whether their current solutions support monitoring and restricting apps installed outside of official app stores. Determine who within your organization needs to be informed about potential changes to iOS security models. Check if your suppliers have plans to adapt their security tools for open ecosystems. Establish a communication channel with vendors to receive updates on compliance with new regional regulations. Ensure your incident response plans account for software distribution changes.

What to do and how to stay safe: Apple

• Review your mobile device management policies to identify gaps in controlling non-official app installations.
• Monitor legal updates regarding the appeal to anticipate changes to iOS security controls in Australia.
• Assess the risk exposure of allowing third-party app stores on corporate-owned iPhone devices.
• Coordinate with your mobile vendor to ensure their tools can enforce security standards in an open ecosystem.

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General security guidance from the TechSec Feed newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

When must Apple allow third-party app stores in Australia?

The ruling requires Apple to make these changes starting March 1, 2027.

Who filed the antitrust lawsuit against Apple?

Epic Games has been engaged in a years-long antitrust battle with Apple.

Will Apple comply with the ruling immediately?

No, Apple plans to appeal the federal judge’s decision.