Apple opens up App Store to new competition in Brazil

2026-06-18 · Source: TechCrunch · Field: Legal & Regulatory — Regulatory Affairs & Government Relations, Compliance & Risk Management, Corporate Law & Business Legal Services · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

Apple announced changes for developers in Brazil, allowing them to distribute iOS apps through alternative app stores and process payments for digital goods and services outside the App Store. These revisions, part of an agreement with Brazil's competition regulator Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica (CADE), mirror earlier changes in the EU and Japan, further loosening Apple's control over its iOS ecosystem. The update introduces new protections for the Brazilian market, including a notarization process for third-party apps, authorization for alternative marketplaces, and rules to safeguard children from inappropriate content and scams. Apple also updated Attachment 12 of its Developer Program License Agreement, applying the 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC) fee structure to apps distributed via the App Store, web, or alternative marketplaces in Brazil. Developers must agree to this updated license by July 6, 2026.

Key takeaway

For iOS developers in Brazil considering app distribution and monetization strategies, you now have the option to use alternative app stores and external payment processing. Be aware that a 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC) will apply to your apps, regardless of distribution channel. You must review and agree to the updated Apple Developer Program License Agreement by July 6, 2026, to continue operating in this evolving market.

Key insights

Apple is opening its iOS app ecosystem to alternative distribution and payment methods in Brazil due to regulatory pressure.

Principles

• Regulatory pressure drives platform changes.
• Alternative app stores require new protections.
• Core Technology Commission applies broadly.

In practice

• Distribute iOS apps via alternative stores.
• Process payments outside App Store.
• Agree to updated license by July 6, 2026.

Topics

• Apple App Store
• Brazil Market
• iOS App Distribution
• Core Technology Commission
• Competition Regulation
• Developer Program Agreement

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by TechCrunch.