Apple avoids sideloading requirement for Brazil iPhone users

Apple will not be required to allow sideloading for iPhone users in Brazil, at least for now. This decision comes after a Brazilian court ruled that the company does not have to make the changes requested by regulators. Earlier this month, a court had given Apple 90 days to enable sideloading, which would let developers distribute apps outside the App Store. However, a new ruling has allowed Apple to continue its current practice of app distribution exclusively through the App Store. The dispute began when Brazil's antitrust regulator, Cade, ordered Apple to permit app distribution outside its App Store. Apple appealed this ruling, and a judge decided that the injunction was not urgent. This gives Apple more time to discuss the matter, which has led to the current ruling. The Brazilian court had previously noted that Apple's restrictions could limit new competitors in the market. The company argued that allowing sideloading would harm the privacy and security of its users. Although today's ruling is favorable for Apple, it is not a permanent victory, as the Brazilian regulator may still appeal. Epic Games, which plans to launch Fortnite for iOS users in Brazil in July, expressed disappointment with the judge's decision. The ongoing legal battles around Apple's App Store practices continue to attract attention both in Brazil and internationally.