Japan is taking tough steps to limit the activities of the big tech companies that dominate the smartphone business. New rules are being framed mainly to ensure fair competition. News NHK World.
The purpose of the new law enacted by the Parliament is to allow new companies to enter the market as well as promote technological innovation.
Companies like Apple and Google will be controlled in four areas – operating systems, app stores, internet browsers and search engines.
The law will shed light on such practices that may draw criticism. These include preventing people from using competitors’ services and improperly restricting use of various types.
Designated organizations are required to submit a compliance report annually. Violators of this law can be fined 20 percent of their total sales in Japan, and the fine can increase to 30 percent for repeated violations.
The government is planning to fully implement this new law by the end of next year.
