Apple is required by a Brazilian court to allow sideloading on iPhones within 90 days, a significant change from its current restrictions. This follows legal disputes regarding app distribution and fees, echoing similar challenges faced in the EU under the Digital Markets Act.
Apple has been ordered by a Brazilian federal court to permit sideloading on iPhones, allowing users to download apps outside its official App Store. The company has 90 days to comply with this ruling, following a prolonged legal dispute. Historically, Apple has restricted sideloading to maintain control over app distribution and associated fees, which can reach 30% for paid apps, although discounts exist for smaller developers.
The Brazilian court’s ruling marks a significant shift in Apple’s app distribution policy, potentially fostering competition and diversification in the app market. As the deadline approaches, Apple’s next steps may influence its business model and user security. This development follows similar sideloading regulations in the EU under the Digital Markets Act but with the possibility of differing fee structures in Brazil.
Original Source: www.heise.de