Apple says developers can now use alternative marketplaces and payment methods in Brazil after a deal with CADE. The new rules let apps offer in‑app and off‑app external purchases alongside Apple’s IAP. Those using Apple’s IAP pay a 5 % processing fee plus a 10 %‑21 % commission. Apps that use third‑party payment face the same 10 %‑21 % bracket, while external links pay 10 %‑18 %.

Epic Games and the Coalition for App Fairness slammed the new terms, arguing that high fees and tracking requirements keep the ecosystem closed. They say the policy forces developers to stay within Apple’s system or pay steep commissions, stifling competition. Epic compares the rule set to Japan’s, calling it a deliberate move to curb alternative stores and payment options in Brazil today.

For developers, the extra 5 % Core Technology Commission on digital goods and the 10 %‑18 % rate for external links mean higher costs and less incentive to innovate. Consumers could miss out on special offers outside the App Store. Epic vows to push regulators and plans to launch the Epic Games Store for iPhone within months, challenging Apple’s dominance today.