Apple Required to Allow Alternative App Stores in Brazil Within 90 Days

Apple must enable alternative app stores in Brazil within 90 days, following a ruling that cites its compliance in other nations. The decision is part of an ongoing investigation linked to market practices and complaints from Mercado Livre. Apple intends to appeal this ruling while affirming its commitment to competition and user trust.

Apple has been mandated to permit alternative app stores on its iOS platform in Brazil within a 90-day timeframe, as reported by Brazilian news outlet Valor International and 9to5Mac. This follows a similar requirement imposed on Apple to allow third-party app stores in the European Union in compliance with the Digital Markets Act.

The recent ruling by a Brazilian judge acknowledged Apple’s compliance with analogous regulations in other countries, indicating that this move should not significantly harm its economic model.

Brazil’s scrutiny of Apple started in 2022, initiated by complaints from Mercado Livre. Although Brazil previously set a 20-day deadline for Apple to enable alternative in-app payment methods and app sideloading, this directive was temporarily lifted in December.

In response, Apple intends to appeal the antitrust ruling, asserting through a translated statement that the company values vibrant competition and innovation in the markets where it operates, while also emphasizing the trust of its users. As of now, Apple has not responded to inquiries from The Verge regarding this matter.

In summary, Apple is required to allow alternative app stores on its iOS platform in Brazil within 90 days following a judge’s ruling. The company plans to appeal, yet it has demonstrated compliance with similar regulations in other nations. This ruling stems from an investigation initiated by Mercado Livre, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of Apple’s market practices.

Original Source: www.theverge.com