Brazilian authorities have ruled that Apple must allow third-party iPhone app stores to operate in the country within 90 days. This decision aligns with similar requirements imposed in Europe under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Regulators argue that Apple’s strict control over app distribution limits competition and restricts developers’ options.
The judge overseeing the case emphasized that Apple has complied with similar regulations in other regions without suffering significant economic harm. The investigation into Apple’s app store policies began after a 2022 complaint from South American marketplace Mercado Livre, which accused the company of anti-competitive practices. In November, Apple was given 20 days to permit developers to offer alternative payment options and distribute software through third-party platforms. However, authorities withdrew the requirement in early December without enforcing it.
Apple Plans to Appeal the Decision
Apple has announced its intention to challenge the ruling. Company spokesperson Fred Sainz stated in a comment to The Verge:
“Apple believes in dynamic and competitive markets where innovation can thrive. We face competition in every segment and jurisdiction where we operate, and the trust of our users is always important to us. We are concerned that the temporary measures proposed by [Brazil’s Economic Defense Administrative Council] CADE will undermine the privacy and security of our users, and we intend to appeal the decision.”
Apple has long defended its closed ecosystem, arguing that strict control over app distribution ensures user security and prevents malware threats. The company has made limited concessions in response to regulatory pressure but remains resistant to broader changes.
For now, it remains unclear how Apple will respond if the appeal is unsuccessful. The ruling could set a precedent for similar cases in other markets. We’ll keep you updated as more details emerge.