Apple Navigates Brazilian Antitrust Scrutiny Over App Store and NFC Access
Apple is currently addressing antitrust concerns in Brazil regarding its App Store policies and access to the iPhone’s Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. These challenges stem from investigations initiated by Brazil’s competition watchdog, the Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica (CADE), and the country’s central bank (Banco Central).
App Store Policy Overhaul Following Antitrust Settlement
In December 2025, Apple reached a settlement with CADE to resolve antitrust allegations concerning its iOS App Store rules. As reported by 9to5Mac, this agreement mandates several changes to Apple’s practices in Brazil. Specifically, Apple must now allow alternative app distribution channels, permit developers to link to external payment options, and enable third-party payment methods alongside Apple’s in-app purchase system. These changes are designed to foster competition within the iOS ecosystem.
The settlement, formalized as a Term of Commitment to Cease (TCC), requires Apple to ensure that any user-facing notices about these alternative options are presented in a “neutral and objective way,” avoiding any measures that could hinder user experience. According to CADE, the agreement establishes commitments to ensure competition in the distribution of applications and payment processing within the iOS ecosystem, with potential fines of up to BRL 150 million for non-compliance.
Apple has up to 105 days to implement these changes, which will remain in effect for three years and are subject to review. Competition.today notes that the fee structure has been revised to align with the recent rules, aiming for tangible pro-competitive effects for both developers and users.
NFC Access and PIX Payment System
Beyond the App Store policies, Apple is facing scrutiny over its control of NFC access on iPhones. Brazil’s central bank and banking lobby group Febraban initiated an investigation into whether Apple was unfairly restricting third-party payment providers’ access to the iPhone’s NFC capabilities compared to its own Apple Pay service.
Apple has countered these claims by stating that it holds only 10% of the Brazilian smartphone market and that third-party developers have had access to the iPhone’s NFC since 2024. The company also argues that the Brazilian payment landscape is already well-served, particularly by PIX, a popular local, free, and instant payment system launched in 2020.
While Google has adopted a contactless protocol for PIX, Apple has declined to do so, maintaining that Brazilians primarily use PIX payments via QR codes. Apple’s legal team has argued against being compelled to offer access to its proprietary technologies without compensation, citing investments in research, development, and security measures. They also expressed concern that alternative NFC access models could introduce friction for users switching between payment cards.
Recent Discussions with Banco Central
Representatives from Apple met with Banco Central’s director of regulation, Gilneu Francisco Astolfi Vivan, in January to discuss these “regulatory issues.” Details of the closed-door meeting have not been publicly disclosed.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of February 20, 2026, and is subject to change.