Another significant crack has appeared in Apple's once-impenetrable walled garden, with Brazil becoming the latest country to mandate that the tech giant allow sideloading on its iOS devices. Apple has been given a 90-day window to comply with this court order, a ruling that echoes similar mandates in other countries where the company has already had to adjust its policies.
Apple, unsurprisingly, plans to appeal the decision. For those unfamiliar with the term, sideloading refers to the ability to download and install apps directly onto a device, bypassing the official app store. This practice, common among Android users through the use of APK files, enables the installation of third-party applications directly onto smartphones.
Apple's resistance to sideloading is well-documented, rooted in their long-standing commitment to privacy and security. The company has consistently argued that allowing sideloading could compromise user data. This stance was thrust into the spotlight following Epic Games' lawsuit against Apple over five years ago, which challenged the tech giant's control over its ecosystem.
PeekabooDespite Apple's privacy concerns, the company's position on sideloading, third-party app stores, and related issues is increasingly under scrutiny. In 2022, Apple's introduction of App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes shook the gaming industry, requiring developers to seek permission for advertising and limiting user profiling capabilities—a move that drew regulatory attention, particularly because Apple itself was exempt from these restrictions.
As Apple continues to face pressure from various regions, including Vietnam and the European Union, the era of its tightly controlled ecosystem seems to be waning. The battle against sideloading and third-party app stores appears to be one that Apple might be losing.
While Apple navigates these legal challenges, mobile gaming enthusiasts might be more interested in exploring new titles. Check out our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week for some exciting launches from the past seven days.
