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, and 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 staunch opposition to sideloading, citing privacy concerns, has been a consistent theme. This resistance intensified after Epic Games' lawsuit five years ago, highlighting concerns about Apple's control over its ecosystem. Apple's privacy arguments have also been a focal point in other disputes, including its 2022 App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes, which impacted advertising and user profiling and faced regulatory scrutiny due to Apple's self-exemption.

Despite its privacy arguments, Apple's resistance to sideloading is weakening. Recent rulings in Vietnam and the broader EU suggest a shift away from Apple's tightly controlled ecosystem. The company faces an uphill battle against growing pressure for greater app store openness.

For those less interested in Apple's legal battles, check out our list of the top five new mobile games this week!