apple is going to allow third-party app Apple is set to allow third-party app stores on iOS in Brazil next year after settling with the country’s competition watchdog in a legal battle dating back to 2022, as reported by 9to5Mac.
apple is going to allow third-party app
Background of the Legal Dispute
The decision comes after a protracted legal battle with Brazil’s competition authority, known as CADE (Administrative Council for Economic Defense). This conflict began in 2022 when CADE initiated an investigation into Apple’s practices concerning its App Store and payment systems. The regulator raised concerns about Apple’s dominant position in the market and the restrictions it imposed on developers, particularly regarding payment processing and app distribution.
Brazil has been increasingly vigilant in enforcing competition laws, especially in the tech sector. The country’s regulatory environment has evolved to ensure that consumers and developers have more choices, particularly in the context of digital services. The investigation into Apple was part of a broader effort to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices in the tech industry.
Details of the Settlement
According to a machine translation of a press release from CADE, the regulatory body has approved a Term of Commitment to Termination (TCC) made by Apple. This agreement obligates the company to allow third-party app stores and enables developers to use external payment systems. The specifics of how Apple will implement these changes have not been fully detailed in the release, but the implications are significant.
Third-Party App Stores
The introduction of third-party app stores on iOS represents a substantial shift in Apple’s long-standing policy. Historically, Apple has maintained strict control over its App Store, which has been a cornerstone of its ecosystem. By allowing third-party app stores, Apple is opening the door for alternative distribution channels for apps, which could lead to increased competition and innovation.
Third-party app stores could provide developers with more flexibility in how they distribute their applications. This change may also lead to a wider variety of apps available to consumers, as developers may choose to create apps that do not conform to Apple’s stringent App Store guidelines. The potential for increased competition could also drive down prices for consumers, as developers may offer lower fees compared to Apple’s standard pricing structure.
External Payment Systems
In addition to allowing third-party app stores, Apple will also permit developers to utilize external payment systems. This change is particularly significant because it could reduce the fees that developers are required to pay to Apple for in-app purchases. Currently, Apple takes a commission of up to 30% on transactions made through its App Store, a practice that has drawn criticism from developers and regulators alike.
By enabling external payment options, developers may be able to offer more competitive pricing for their apps and in-app purchases. This could lead to a more diverse marketplace, where consumers have access to a broader range of pricing models and payment options.
Implications for Developers and Consumers
The implications of this settlement are far-reaching for both developers and consumers. For developers, the ability to use third-party app stores and external payment systems could significantly alter their business models. Many developers have long argued that Apple’s App Store policies stifle innovation and limit their ability to reach consumers effectively. The new regulations could empower developers to create and distribute apps in ways that were previously not possible.
For consumers, the introduction of third-party app stores may lead to a richer app ecosystem. Users could benefit from a wider selection of applications, including those that may not meet Apple’s strict guidelines. Additionally, the potential for lower prices due to reduced fees could make apps more accessible to a broader audience.
Stakeholder Reactions
The response to this development has been mixed among stakeholders. Some developers have expressed cautious optimism about the changes. Many have long criticized Apple’s App Store policies, arguing that they create an unfair playing field. The ability to use third-party app stores and external payment systems is seen as a step towards leveling the playing field.
However, some stakeholders remain skeptical about the extent to which these changes will benefit developers and consumers. Critics argue that while the introduction of third-party app stores is a positive step, Apple may still find ways to maintain control over the ecosystem. The details of how Apple will implement these changes are crucial, and many are waiting to see if the company will impose additional restrictions that could undermine the intended benefits.
Global Context
This development in Brazil is part of a broader trend of regulatory scrutiny facing major tech companies worldwide. Regulatory bodies in various countries are increasingly examining the practices of tech giants like Apple, Google, and Amazon. The European Union has also taken significant steps to regulate app stores and payment systems, pushing for more transparency and competition in the digital marketplace.
In the United States, lawmakers have been exploring similar issues, with discussions around antitrust legislation gaining traction. The outcome of these regulatory efforts could have far-reaching implications for how tech companies operate and how consumers access digital services.
Future Outlook
As Apple prepares to implement these changes in Brazil, the tech industry will be closely watching the outcomes. The success of third-party app stores and external payment systems in Brazil could serve as a model for other countries considering similar regulatory changes. If the implementation proves successful, it may encourage other jurisdictions to adopt similar measures, further reshaping the app ecosystem globally.
Moreover, the changes could prompt Apple to reassess its policies in other markets. The company has faced increasing pressure from developers and regulators to modify its App Store practices. The Brazilian settlement may signal a willingness on Apple’s part to adapt to evolving regulatory landscapes and consumer demands.
Conclusion
The decision to allow third-party app stores and external payment systems in Brazil marks a significant shift in Apple’s approach to app distribution and payment processing. While the details of the implementation remain to be seen, the potential benefits for developers and consumers are substantial. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, the outcomes of this settlement could have lasting implications for the tech industry and the way digital services are delivered.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: December 24, 2025 at 4:35 am
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