Apple opens up App Store to new competition in Brazil

In a significant move, Apple has announced that developers in Brazil can now distribute their iOS applications through alternative app stores and handle payments for digital content outside of the App Store. This development comes as part of Apple’s agreement with Brazil’s competition authority, known as CADE, and signals a shift in Apple's regulatory approach following similar changes made in the European Union and Japan. This adjustment represents a notable reduction in Apple's longstanding control over the iOS app ecosystem. Increased scrutiny from regulators and legal challenges, such as the Epic Games lawsuit in the United States, have compelled Apple to adapt its policies. As a result of the U.S. court's ruling, Apple now allows developers to guide users to external payment methods. In Brazil, the updates will introduce essential safeguards, including a notarization requirement for iOS apps that are distributed outside the App Store. Additionally, developers will need to meet authorization criteria for alternative app marketplaces, alongside regulations aimed at protecting children from inappropriate content and potential scams. Furthermore, Apple has revised its Developer Program License Agreement to reflect these changes specifically for the Brazilian market. The updated agreement includes a new fee structure known as the Core Technology Commission (CTC) fee of 5%, which replaces the previous Core Technology Fee (CTF) introduced in January as part of Apple’s updated business terms in Europe. Developers in Brazil must agree to the updated license agreement by July 6, 2026, to comply with these new regulations.