Apple opens iOS to rival app stores in Brazil

Apple Opens App Store to Alternatives in Brazil

Apple announced on Thursday that developers in Brazil can now distribute iOS apps through alternative marketplaces and process payments outside of its system, marking the formal implementation of a settlement reached with Brazilian competition regulator CADE in December 2025.

New Distribution and Payment Options

The changes, which take effect with the release of iOS 26.5, allow developers to create and operate third-party app stores using Apple’s MarketplaceKit framework. Developers can choose to continue distributing through the App Store, publish on multiple third-party platforms, or both.sina

On the payments front, Apple is now offering developers three transaction models: Apple’s in-app purchase system, third-party payment processors integrated within apps, or links directing users to external websites to complete purchases. Apps that use external web payments must still offer Apple’s in-app purchase option alongside them.thestar

“These updates create new options for developers to distribute apps on alternative app marketplaces and to process app payments for digital goods and services outside of Apple in-app purchases,” Apple said.usnews

Commission Structure

The revised fee schedule varies by distribution channel and payment method. Apps distributed through the App Store using Apple’s in-app purchase system face a 21% store commission plus a 5% processing fee. Apps on the App Store that opt for third-party or web-based payments pay only the 21% commission. Developers in Apple’s Small Business Program or other qualifying programs can see rates as low as 10%.slashdot

For apps distributed exclusively through third-party marketplaces, there is no App Store commission, but Apple charges a 5% Core Technology Commission.sina

Safety Measures and Context

Apple said it would introduce protections including app notarization, authorization requirements for marketplaces, and safeguards for younger users. The company warned that alternative marketplaces and payment systems could increase risks of malware, fraud, and privacy threats.usnews

Users running iOS 26.5 or later can set an alternative marketplace as their default app installation platform through a new setting under Settings > Apps.9to5mac

The changes stem from CADE’s investigation, opened in 2022 following a complaint by e-commerce company MercadoLibre. The settlement, signed on December 23, 2025, gave Apple 105 days to comply or face fines of up to 150 million reais, approximately $27 million. Brazil joins the European Union and Japan among jurisdictions that have compelled Apple to open its mobile platform to outside competition.gov