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The Federal Regional Court of the 1st Region in Brazil has reinstated an injunction against Apple, overturning a previous ruling favouring the tech giant. Apple has been given 90 days to allow alternative app stores on iOS in Brazil.
In November, the Administrative Council for Economic Defense’s (CADE) General Superintendence initiated an administrative proceeding against Apple, citing concerns over restrictive practices in the iOS ecosystem. The antitrust authority issued injunctions to facilitate competition, allowing apps to inform users about alternative purchasing methods. Apple successfully appealed to the Federal Court of the Federal District, which suspended the injunctions, reports Valor International.
The presiding Judge Pablo Zuniga highlighted that Apple has already complied with similar regulations in other regions without suffering irreparable harm. The court’s stance suggests that Brazil is unwilling to accept Apple’s security and privacy arguments as sufficient justification for maintaining its closed ecosystem.
“The closed structure of iOS and the restrictions imposed on third-party app sales are precisely the factors that justify the preventive action of the antitrust authority,” Zuniga stated.
While the original timeline required compliance within 20 days, the court granted Apple an extended 90-day window to adjust its operations. The ruling clarified that these measures do not obstruct Apple’s business model but merely impose temporary adjustments that could be revoked if the company ultimately prevails in the administrative process.
Apple has signalled its intent to challenge the decision. Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz defended the company’s position, emphasising the importance of user trust and the potential risks of third-party app distribution.
“We face competition in every segment and jurisdiction where we operate, and our focus in always the trust of our users. We are concerned that the interim measures proposed by CADE would undermine the privacy and security of our users and intend to appeal today’s decision,” Sainz told The Verge.
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