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, a development Apple plans to appeal. Sideloading allows 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 recurring theme. This resistance intensified after Epic Games' lawsuit five years ago, highlighting concerns about Apple's control over its ecosystem. Apple's argument centers on user privacy, a point also raised regarding third-party app stores and its 2022 App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes which impacted advertising and user profiling. These ATT changes, while presented as privacy-enhancing, have faced regulatory scrutiny due to Apple's exemption from similar requirements.

Despite its privacy focus, Apple faces increasing pressure globally. Countries like Vietnam and the EU are pushing for greater openness, suggesting Apple's traditionally closed ecosystem is weakening. The company's appeal of the Brazilian ruling remains to be seen. For those interested in new mobile games, check out our list of the top five new releases this week.