Apple Forced to Allow Sideloading in Brazil

A Brazilian court has ordered Apple to allow sideloading on iOS devices within 90 days. This follows similar rulings in other countries, although Apple plans to appeal. Sideloading allows users to install apps directly onto their iPhones, bypassing the App Store, a feature long available on Android via APKs.

Apple's long-standing opposition to sideloading, citing privacy concerns, has been challenged repeatedly. The Epic Games lawsuit, filed over five years ago, significantly heightened scrutiny of Apple's control over its ecosystem. This includes previous actions like the 2022 App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes, which, while framed as privacy-enhancing, have also faced regulatory challenges due to Apple's self-exemption.

Despite Apple's arguments, the tide seems to be turning against its walled-garden approach. Recent rulings in Vietnam and the EU, along with this Brazilian decision, suggest a global shift towards greater app store openness. Apple's appeals may prove unsuccessful, marking a potential end to its strict control over iOS app distribution.

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