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Epic accuses Apple of sidestepping App Store antitrust deal in Brazil
Epic Games has lodged a formal complaint with Brazil's antitrust authority against Apple, accusing it of restrictive practices undermining a settlement from a protracted investigation into App Store rules. The settlement, allowing developers to utilize alternative app marketplaces and payment methods outside Apple's system, seems to be sidestepped by Apple through complex installation processes and heightened reporting requirements, according to Epic. As Brazil’s CADE gives Apple a deadline to respond, this situation could reshape the app distribution landscape in the region.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizonRegulatory risk: High
Published 21 Aug 2026, 22:30 UTC2 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Epic claims Apple is imposing excessive barriers to alternative app distribution.
- The complaint was filed with Brazil's CADE, the antitrust watchdog.
- Apple's new terms allow developers to use alternative marketplaces in Brazil.
- Issues include increased installation steps and reporting requirements.
- Apple must respond to the allegations by Monday.
Interesting facts
- Apple's new commission structure includes a 5% fee on digital goods from apps distributed outside the App Store.
- The initial installation process in Europe had 15 steps before being reduced to six.