Following EU, Apple is now being forced to allow app sideloading in Brazil

Brazil is taking a stand against Apple, ordering the tech giant to allow app sideloading on iPhones within 90 days. This decision follows a similar move by the European Union and marks a significant challenge to Apple’s control over its App Store. Sideloading, which means installing apps from sources other than the official App Store, has been a hot topic in the ongoing debate about competition and user choice in the tech world.

The ruling reportedly comes after a complaint from Mercado Livre, a major Latin American e-commerce company, which accused Apple of unfairly limiting competition by forcing all app sales through its own store.

Brazil’s antitrust regulator, known as CADE, agreed and launched an investigation in 2022. Initially, CADE gave Apple just 20 days to allow sideloading and alternative payment methods, but Apple appealed, and a judge temporarily blocked the order. Now, a federal court has reversed that decision, giving Apple 90 days to comply.

The judge pointed out that Apple already allows sideloading in other regions, like the EU, without major issues. So, the question is, why not in Brazil? Apple, however, isn’t backing down.

The company plans to appeal, arguing that opening up the iPhone to third-party apps could harm user privacy and security. Apple has long defended its closed system, saying it protects users by ensuring all apps are vetted for safety. But critics, including other companies like Match (which owns Tinder) and Epic Games (maker of Fortnite), say Apple’s rules are too strict and stifle competition.

For iPhone users in Brazil, this could mean more freedom to choose where they get their apps, possibly leading to more options and lower prices. But it also comes with risks. Downloading apps from unofficial sources could expose users to scams or malware. But at the end of the day, I believe users should have the choice. Android has managed the same for years, and it seems to be working out just fine.