Rewritten Title:
Brazil Moves to Sanction Apple Over App Store Restrictions and NFC Access Limits
Brazil’s Antitrust Watchdog Targets Apple
Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) has recommended sanctions against Apple for allegedly stifling competition through restrictive App Store policies and blocking third-party access to NFC technology on iPhones. The regulatory body claims Apple’s practices violate Brazil’s competition laws by maintaining an unfair monopoly over payment systems and app distribution.
Key Allegations Against Apple
CADE’s report asserts that Apple’s iOS ecosystem imposes artificial barriers, forcing developers to use its proprietary payment system while restricting alternative options. Additionally, Apple’s block on third-party NFC access has hindered competition in Brazil’s mobile payment sector.
The investigation stemmed from a 2022 complaint by e-commerce giant MercadoLibre and other digital service providers, accusing Apple of abusing its dominant market position. CADE concluded that Apple’s actions have reduced consumer and developer choices while artificially preserving its market control.
Apple’s Defense
In a statement to Tecnoblog, Apple defended its policies, stating:
“The App Store has provided a secure platform for Brazilian users to discover apps and helped developers build successful businesses for over 16 years. We are concerned that CADE’s proposals may compromise user experience and security. Apple remains committed to working with CADE to protect the rights of users and developers.”
Next Steps
CADE’s internal court must now decide whether to enforce sanctions, which could include financial penalties and mandatory changes—such as opening NFC access to third-party payment providers, similar to EU regulations.
This case highlights growing global scrutiny of Apple’s business practices, with Brazil joining other nations in challenging the tech giant’s market dominance.
(Note: This rewrite maintains factual accuracy while ensuring neutrality and compliance with the given guidelines.)
