GoKawiilApple has added a new setting on iOS 26.5 that lets Brazilian users select their preferred app marketplace other than the App Store. Here are the details.
Apple to allow alternative iOS app stores in Brazil
Earlier this month, iHelpBR noted that iOS 26.5 RC set up support for app sideloading in Brazil, following a settlement with CADE, the country’s competition watchdog, over the App Store’s rules in the country.
Now, as spotted by Sorcererhat Tech, Brazilian users can see a new “App Installation” option under Settings > Apps, a section that lets users “manage (their) default apps for iPhone, including choosing the apps (they) prefer to use for opening links on the web, sending emails, making contactless payments, and more.”
AGORA: Usuários brasileiros começaram a receber uma nova opção para definir a loja de apps padrão do iOS, indicando que a liberação do sideloading deve acontecer a qualquer momento.
O ajuste pode ser encontrado no iOS 26.5 em Ajustes > Apps > Apps Padrão > Instalação de Apps. pic.twitter.com/URZLfXHtKl — Sorcererhat Tech (@SorcererhatTech) May 15, 2026
Right now, the App Installation setting shows only the App Store, while Apple’s description of the setting says the following:
“Your default marketplace is at the top and will be used to show recommendations in Spotlight, Siri, Safari, and more. If you’ve added multiple marketplaces, you can change your default marketplace.”
While it remains unclear exactly when Apple will enable alternative app distribution in Brazil, the new setting offers a hint at what the implementation may look like.
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