A Brazilian judge has ordered Apple to allow app sideloading within 90 days, referencing similar rulings in Europe. Apple’s prior appeal regarding implementation challenges was partly upheld, but the court has since mandated compliance or risk fines. The litigation was initiated by e-commerce firm Mercado Libre due to high app commission fees.
A Brazilian judge has mandated that Apple permit app sideloading within 90 days, as reported by Valor Econômico. This directive aligns with similar rulings in Europe and other regions. Judge Pablo Zuniga noted, “[Apple] has already complied with similar obligations in other countries, without demonstrating a significant impact or irreparable damage to its business model.”
Previously, Brazil’s antitrust authority, CADE, had imposed a 20-day deadline for Apple to enable users to download apps from outside the App Store. Apple appealed against this ruling, citing implementation challenges. The court deemed the initial injunction “disproportionate and unnecessary,” allowing Apple additional time while mandating a public hearing.
Upon CADE’s subsequent appeal, the court has firmly required Apple to allow sideloading and the establishment of third-party app stores within three months or face financial penalties. This legal action originated with Mercado Libre, a prominent e-commerce company in Latin America, which criticized the substantial commissions charged by Apple’s App Store. Several other developers, including Match and Epic Games, later joined the appeal.
An Apple representative expressed to Valor Econômico the company’s commitment to fostering competitive markets. However, they cautioned that such changes could pose risks to the privacy and security of iOS users and announced intentions to challenge the ruling.
In summary, a Brazilian court has mandated that Apple facilitate app sideloading within 90 days, supported by recent similar judicial decisions in other countries. The order comes in the wake of complaints regarding high commission fees imposed by Apple on developers. Apple has expressed concerns over the implications for user security and privacy and plans to contest the ruling.
Original Source: www.engadget.com
