A Brazilian court has ordered Apple to allow sideloading on iOS devices within 90 days. This follows similar rulings in other countries, and 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 longstanding opposition to sideloading, citing privacy concerns, has been challenged repeatedly. The Epic Games lawsuit five years ago highlighted these concerns, focusing attention on Apple's control over its ecosystem. Apple’s argument centers on user privacy, a key point of contention regarding sideloading and third-party app stores. This concern was also central to Apple's 2022 App Tracking Transparency (ATT) changes, which impacted advertising and user profiling, leading to regulatory scrutiny and exemptions for Apple itself.
Despite its privacy arguments, Apple faces increasing pressure. Recent rulings in Vietnam and the EU suggest a weakening of Apple's control over its walled garden. The company appears to be losing the battle against sideloading and other demands for greater openness.
For those interested in new mobile games, check out our list of the top five new releases this week.
