Apple rings up $46bn for developers via App Store in Japan

40 years in, tech giant dominates country's smartphone market but headwinds grow

The iPhone 14 series on display at an Apple Store in Tokyo. Around half of new smartphones sold in Japan are iPhones, making Apple the top player in the market. (Photo obtained by Nikkei)

REI NAKAFUJI, Nikkei staff writer

August 9, 2023 03:09 JST

PALO ALTO, U.S. -- Apple's App Store ecosystem helped developers generate billings and sales of $46 billion in Japan for 2022, the American company said Tuesday as it celebrated reaching four decades in the Asian country earlier this year.

Apple shares Japan's values of craftsmanship and design, CEO Tim Cook said in a news release, adding that "we're so proud to celebrate 40 years" there.