Apple had argued that third‑party stores and payment methods raise privacy and security risks, and the new terms aim to balance regulatory goals with maintaining some control over transactions.

Brazil secures a deal forcing Apple to open its iOS ecosystem by early spring, allowing alternative app stores, third‑party payments for in‑app purchases, and in‑app links to external offers.

The settlement addresses CADE’s concerns that App Store policies stifle competition and inflate commissions, aligning Brazil with global regulatory pressure on Apple.

Brazil’s move mirrors the EU DMA and Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act, signaling a broader push toward open app distribution with regionally varying implementations.

Industry reaction is mixed: potential for more competition and lower fees, but concerns about fragmentation and true openness, with possible implications for Google and other platforms.

Apple has signaled intent to appeal, arguing that broader third‑party stores and payment methods could threaten user privacy and security, while regulators note that similar measures exist in other major markets.

User notices about alternative options must be neutral and should not impede the user experience.

The case raises questions about maintaining different ecosystem rules by country and could push toward global alignment with the most restrictive regimes.

Settlement talks could avert fines up to about 2 billion reais, but regulators say substantial concessions will be required regardless.

AltStore and other Brazilian marketplaces are highlighted as beneficiaries, with safeguards like notarization to preserve oversight.

The investigation features a sequence of rulings and threats, including potential sideloading and fines, though no such penalties have been imposed in Brazil to date.

Overall, Brazil’s move fits a broader regulatory trend toward open ecosystems, with ongoing pressure that could influence other regions in the future.