Brazil takes an example from Europe
Apple's App Store rules preventing external links have been declared illegal in Brazil. This means that Apple can no longer prohibit developers from linking to their own websites to sell in-app content like books, movies, music and games.
In essence, the Californian firm will have to let the developers promote external payment methodsalongside in-app purchases. Likewise, external links must be authorized: applications may include links redirecting users to external platforms to carry out transactions.
In addition, publishers must be able to distribute their applications via stores other than the App Store –Cupertino will therefore have to authorize alternative App Storeslike in Europe. Finally, developers will be able to offer their applications on the App Store without the obligation to include an in-app purchase option.
What potential impact?
In practice, Apple has 20 days to comply with these new rules. After this period, a penalty will be applied per day of delay, but it only amounts to 250,000 reals (environ 41 000 €which is not likely to bother the firm much).
No official reaction has yet been issued by Apple nor by MercadoLibre. This case could, however, set a significant precedent in other regions seeking to reform the practices of large digital platforms.
This decision follows a global movement to protest the current model of Apple – but also of other tech giants. Until now, Apple received a commission on all transactions carried out via its services: the amount, as well as the principle, are now being questioned almost everywhere in the world.
Brazil is no exceptionbut aligns with similar initiatives already implemented in the EU, to encourage more competition and reduce developer dependence on the Apple ecosystem.
