Opening up to outside app stores could present a major threat to Apple’s fast-growing services business, but rivals would first have to surmount the hurdle of convincing consumers to leave the security and simplicity of using Apple’s own store.
As part of the reportedly planned change, Apple customers could ultimately install apps without using the company’s App Store. But Apple has not made decisions on whether to comply with other provisions of the law, such as allowing for alternative payment systems to its own. “The ultimate impact will be minimal as most consumers are creatures of habit and are very satisfied with the platform,” he said. “We expect a majority of consumers will keep the status quo by utilizing existing app store.”The law requires big tech companies to open their systems to competitors in hopes of increasing consumer choice.