Brazil has ordered Apple to enable sideloading within 90 days or face fines.
Apple has been mandated to allow sideloading for iPhone users in Brazil within the next three months or risk daily fines for non-compliance.
On Wednesday, Judge Pablo Zuniga of the Brazilian federal court issued a directive for Apple to permit third-party app marketplaces in the country within 90 days. Failure to comply could result in fines of over $40,000 per day.
Judge Zuniga noted that Apple has implemented similar obligations in other countries without significant impact on its business model.
The European Union enforced a similar requirement on Apple in 2024, leading to the introduction of sideloading for iPhone and iPad users in the EU with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 18.
Brazil seeks Apple to follow suit, citing concerns about potential market competition limitations imposed by Apple on developers.
In response, an Apple spokesperson emphasized the belief in vibrant and competitive markets, highlighting competition in all segments and jurisdictions.
The initial antitrust complaint against Apple was filed by Brazilian regulator CADE in 2022, leading to the recent ruling by Judge Zuniga and a planned legal battle by Apple to protect user privacy and security.