The candidate version of iOS 26.5, released this Monday, includes Brasil among the regions that allow you to install applications outside of the official App Store. The decision marks compliance with the agreement signed between Apple and the Brasil competition regulatory body.
Conselho Administrativo of Defesa Econômica (CADE) reached an agreement with Apple last year, requiring the company to allow alternative distribution of third-party applications and payment options on Brasil. The antitrust dispute began in 2022, when MercadoLibre filed a complaint accusing Apple of abusing control over iOS app distribution and payments.
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Sideloading comes to iOS 26.5 code
Conforme revealed by the iHelpBR platform, loading applications outside the official store now appears in the code of the candidate version of iOS 26.5. Brasil appears alongside Japão and União Europeia in regions where this feature is enabled. Apple has not yet officially confirmed whether sideloading will be enabled in the final release.
Alterações in the underlying code indicates that implementation may occur soon. Usuários Brazilians closely follow the company’s every move:
- Versão candidate (RC) released on May 4, 2026
- Brasil added to the list of regions with sideloading support
- Japão and União Europeia also included
- Official Confirmação still pending from Apple
Origem of antitrust dispute and regulation
MercadoLibre filed a lawsuit against Apple in 2022, accusing the company of maintaining excessive control over the distribution and collection of payments within the iOS ecosystem. The litigation lasted for years, going through several decisions and appeals until the parties negotiated a solution.
What changes with implementation
The implementation of sideloading in Brasil significantly changes the experience for users and developers. Pela for the first time on Brazilian soil, it will be possible to install applications without dependence on App Store, paving the way for alternative stores and different distribution models.
Apple previously told 9to5Mac that the regulatory changes “open new privacy and security risks,” although the company said it is working to “maintain protection against some threats” and preserve “important safeguards for younger users.”
Current Status and next steps
Ainda It is impossible to install applications from outside App Store in the current candidate version. Apple likely needs to activate additional mechanisms before the official release of iOS 26.5, expected in the next few days.
Desenvolvedoras and users await the full activation of the feature, which symbolizes a regulatory victory for competition in the Brazilian mobile application market. The company maintains its position of defending security and privacy despite the new requirements imposed by the regulatory body.