Apple Appeals Brazilian Antitrust Ruling on App Store
Apple is appealing a Brazilian antitrust ruling that mandates allowing alternative app stores on iOS. The company argues the decision threatens user privacy and security, and deems it "disproportionate." The ruling stems from complaints about Apple's anti-steering rules, which prevent developers from directing users to external payment options. Similar regulations are emerging globally.
Apple claims implementing the required changes within the 20-day deadline is impossible, citing the need for extensive technical modifications to iOS. The company also argues the ruling is unnecessary, given the App Store's long-standing business model. The dispute began after Mercado Libre, a major e-commerce platform, accused Apple of enforcing its payment system on developers.
This situation mirrors Apple's ongoing challenges with antitrust regulators worldwide. The company faces similar scrutiny in other regions, including the EU and Japan, where it has already been forced to make concessions. The Brazilian regulator is also investigating Google for similar practices on Android. This legal battle highlights the growing pressure on Apple to open up its ecosystem.