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Once again, Apple must adapt its ecosystem to the requirements of local regulators. This time the changes affect Brazil, where the company has reached an agreement with the local competition authority. As a result, developers will be offered new options for app distribution and payment processing. At the same time, the iPhone maker emphasises that the new rules may involve additional risks to user security. Therefore, the company has prepared a series of safeguards intended to limit the potential risk.
Alternative app stores will arrive on iPhones in Brazil
The biggest change is opening iOS to alternative app stores. Until now iPhone users could download apps only via the App Store, which remained under Apple’s full control. However, the new regulations mean developers will be able to offer their apps via other distribution platforms. This does not mean, though, a complete abandonment of Apple’s oversight. The company plans to introduce a mandatory authorisation process for such stores and a dedicated app verification system.
Every app available outside the App Store will have to undergo so‑called notarisation. This process is intended to detect potential threats, malware and other security issues. Apple stresses, however, that this will be a less stringent check than the one applied in the official store. The manufacturer warns that using alternative sources may increase the risk of encountering inappropriate content, scams or apps that compromise users’ privacy. The company places particular emphasis on protecting the youngest 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 remain the safest place to download apps on the iPhone. The company also admits that, in its view, the imposed changes may negatively affect overall security across the iOS ecosystem.
End of the payments monopoly. Developers will gain new options
The second major change is new possibilities related to digital payments. Until now app developers had to use the Apple In-App Purchase system when selling digital content and subscriptions. That will now change. Developers will be able to integrate their own payment systems or redirect users to external websites to finalise purchases. This means greater freedom for companies that make apps and potentially lower costs of doing business. Apple will still offer its own payment system, however, 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 of potential risks associated with passing payment data to third parties. At the same time Apple has introduced a new commission model for developers operating in the Brazilian market. In many cases fees are to be reduced compared with current rates. Apple emphasises that most app developers 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 is possible that similar regulations will appear in other markets in future.
Apple has announced significant changes for users and developers in Brazil. The new regulations will allow the use of alternative app stores and external payment systems, ending the App Store's monopoly in the region. At the same time the company is rolling out additional safeguards designed to mitigate the risks associated with the new rules.
source: apple
