Apple is required to permit alternative app stores on iOS in Brazil within 90 days, echoing EU mandates. The company intends to appeal the ruling, although the judge pointed out Apple’s prior compliance with similar regulations in other countries. This legal investigation commenced following a complaint by Mercado Livre in 2022.
Apple has been mandated to permit alternative app stores on iOS within a period of 90 days in Brazil, as reported by Valor International and 9to5Mac. This directive follows a similar enforcement in the European Union, where Apple has been required to accommodate third-party app stores under the Digital Markets Act.
The company intends to appeal against this antitrust ruling; however, the presiding judge highlighted that Apple currently allows competing app stores on iPads and iPhones in several other regions. Furthermore, it was noted that the company has successfully complied with comparable demands in different countries without inflicting substantial negative consequences on its economic framework.
Brazil’s scrutiny of Apple originated from a complaint lodged by Mercado Livre in 2022. In a previous ruling from November, Brazil granted Apple a 20-day deadline to enable developers to provide alternative in-app payment choices and allow sideloading, although this injunction was revoked in early December.
According to a translation of Valor’s article, Apple plans to contest the ruling and expresses belief in “vibrant and competitive markets where innovation can flourish.” The company asserts that it faces competition across all sectors and jurisdictions in which it operates, prioritizing user trust above all. Apple has not yet provided a comment to The Verge regarding this situation.
In conclusion, Apple faces a 90-day deadline to enable alternative app stores on its iOS platform in Brazil following a recent ruling. This requirement echoes prior obligations imposed on the company in the European Union. Although Apple plans to appeal, the ruling indicates that the company has previously complied with similar regulations without significant repercussions. The ongoing legal scrutiny stems from a complaint initiated by Mercado Livre and emphasizes Apple’s commitment to competition and innovation.
Original Source: www.theverge.com
