Apple’s iOS 26.5 release candidate now lists Brazil among regions where sideloading is technically possible, joining Japan and the EU. The move follows last year’s settlement with Brazil’s competition watchdog, CADE, which forced Apple to open up its platform for alternative app distribution and third‑party payments ahead of the iOS 26.5 release.

Despite the code changes, sideloading remains disabled in the current build; Apple has yet to flip the final switch for a public release. Developers and users may still face the same App Store restrictions until the official iOS 26.5 launch, which could arrive within weeks.

The CADE decision ended a multi‑year antitrust battle that began when MercadoLibre accused Apple of abusing its control over iOS app distribution and payments. The settlement obliges Apple to keep safeguards for younger users while expanding access to third‑party payment options.

For Brazilian consumers, the change means apps from independent developers or foreign markets could soon bypass the App Store, potentially lowering costs and increasing choice. Until the feature goes live, Apple will likely monitor user feedback and security implications before fully enabling sideloading.