Apple Cracks Open iOS in Brazil for Alternative App Stores
Apple settles with Brazil's competition watchdog CADE, allowing third-party app marketplaces and revising App Store fees.
Apple is opening the gates. Starting today, iOS developers in Brazil can distribute their apps through alternative app marketplaces — no App Store required.
The move comes after Apple reached a settlement with CADE, Brazil's competition authority. As part of the deal, Apple is also restructuring its App Store commission model in the country.
This is part of a broader package of changes Apple agreed to implement. The concessions mirror similar regulatory pressures Apple has faced globally, particularly in the EU, where alternative app distribution became mandatory under the Digital Markets Act.
Brazil now joins a small but growing list of markets where Apple's iron grip on iOS app distribution has been loosened by regulators. For developers operating in the region, the shift opens new distribution channels and potentially better revenue terms.
Apple hasn't disclosed specific commission rate changes yet.