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Brazil becomes the latest country to force Apple to allow sideloading

by Dylan Mar 21,2025

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 on Android via APKs.

Apple's staunch opposition to sideloading, citing privacy concerns, has been a consistent point of contention. This resistance intensified after Epic Games' lawsuit five years ago, highlighting the debate surrounding Apple's control over its ecosystem. Apple's privacy arguments have also been challenged by its own App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes in 2022, which altered advertising practices and user profiling, drawing regulatory attention, especially given Apple's exemption from similar regulations.

Despite Apple's arguments, the tide seems to be turning. With rulings in Brazil, Vietnam, and the broader EU, Apple's walled-garden approach is facing increasing pressure. While Apple will appeal, the future of iOS's closed ecosystem appears increasingly uncertain.

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