Brazil becomes the latest country to force Apple to allow sideloading

A Brazilian court has ordered Apple to allow sideloading on iOS devices within 90 days. This follows similar rulings in other countries, which Apple has already complied with, though they plan to appeal this latest decision. Sideloading enables users to install apps directly onto their iPhones, bypassing the App Store—a feature long available to Android users via APKs.

Apple's staunch opposition to sideloading, citing privacy concerns, has been a long-standing battle. This resistance intensified after Epic Games' lawsuit five years ago, highlighting the company's control over its ecosystem. While Apple emphasizes user privacy, its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes in 2022, requiring permission for advertising and limiting user profiling, have also faced regulatory scrutiny, particularly regarding Apple's own exemption.

Despite its privacy arguments, Apple's resistance to sideloading is weakening. With rulings in Brazil, Vietnam, and the broader EU, the company's tightly controlled ecosystem is facing increasing pressure to open up. While Apple will likely continue to appeal, the trend suggests a shift towards greater app store flexibility.

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