Redakcja Choose TV
Apple once again has to adapt its ecosystem to local regulators' requirements. This time the changes concern Brazil, where the company has reached an agreement with the country's competition authority. As a result, developers will get new options for distributing apps and processing payments. At the same time, the iPhone maker stresses that the new regulations may pose additional security risks to users. For that reason the company has prepared a range of safeguards designed to mitigate potential risk.
Alternative app stores will come to iPhones in Brazil
The biggest change is opening iOS to alternative app stores. Until now, iPhone users could only download apps via the App Store, which remained under Apple’s full control. The new rules, however, mean developers will be able to offer their apps through other distribution platforms as well. That does not mean Apple is abandoning oversight entirely. The company plans to introduce a mandatory authorisation process for such stores and a special app verification system.
Any app available outside the App Store will have to go through so‑called notarisation. This process is intended to detect potential threats, malware and other security issues. Apple emphasises, however, that it will be a less stringent check than the one used in the official store. The company warns that using alternative sources may increase the risk of encountering inappropriate content, scams or apps that infringe users’ privacy. It places particular emphasis on protecting younger users. That is why additional safeguards have been prepared to protect children from harmful content and unauthorised purchases. Apple notes that despite the new regulations, the App Store will still remain the safest place to download apps on the iPhone. The company also acknowledges that, in its view, the forced changes could negatively affect the overall security of the iOS ecosystem.
End of the payments monopoly. Developers will get new options
The second big change is new options around digital payments. Until now, app creators had to use the Apple In-App Purchase system when selling digital content and subscriptions. That will change. Developers will be able to integrate their own payment systems or redirect users to external websites to finalise purchases. That means greater freedom for companies building apps and potentially lower operating costs. Apple will still offer its own payment system and intends to clearly label transactions carried out outside its ecosystem. Users who use Apple In-App Purchase will retain access to purchase history, refunds and convenient subscription management.
With alternative payment methods some of those features will no longer be available. The company also warns about potential risks associated with handing payment data to additional parties. At the same time Apple introduced a new commission model for developers operating in the Brazilian market. In many cases fees are set to be lower than current rates. Apple says most app creators will pay the same or less than before. The changes are due to take effect with the release of iOS 26.5 and represent one of the biggest steps towards opening Apple’s ecosystem beyond Europe. It’s possible similar rules will appear in other markets in the future.
Apple has announced significant changes for users and developers in Brazil. New regulations will allow the use of alternative app stores and external payment systems, bringing an end to the App Store's monopoly in the region. At the same time, the company is rolling out additional safeguards aimed at reducing the risks associated with the new rules.
Source: Apple
