Apple Updates App Store Regulations After Resolution of Brazilian Antitrust Dispute

Beginning next year, Apple will permit app sideloading and external payment links for users in Brazil, following an antitrust agreement with local authorities. Here are the specifics.

### Some background

In 2022, Latin American e-commerce leader MercadoLibre lodged a complaint with Brazil’s competition authority, the Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica (CADE), disputing Apple’s iOS App Store regulations, which included limitations on app distribution and the compulsory use of Apple’s in-app payment system.

Since that time, the legal maneuvering has mirrored the pattern observed in other nations where Apple has encountered comparable antitrust examination. Both Apple and MercadoLibre achieved legal victories, which were promptly contested by the opposing party.

In mid-2025, CADE endorsed a provisional measure that would mandate Apple to permit alternative app distribution and third-party payment links in Brazil, contingent upon a compliance period.

Days prior to the implementation of these changes, CADE and Apple entered yet another phase of negotiations, temporarily halting enforcement.

That leads us to today’s announcement.

### Today’s announcement

In a statement released this morning, CADE announced that its board has endorsed Apple’s proposed Term of Commitment to Cease (TCC), a settlement framework utilized by Brazilian antitrust authorities to conclude investigations in return for enforceable remedies.

As part of the settlement, Apple is required to permit alternative app distribution channels in Brazil, enable developers to link to external payment options, and allow third-party payment methods to be available alongside Apple’s in-app purchase system.

Apple must also ensure that any user-facing notifications regarding these options are “structured in a neutral and objective manner, and shall not create control measures that impede the user experience.”

With today’s settlement, Apple now has a maximum of 105 days to execute the agreed modifications, facing potential fines of up to R$150 million ($27.1 million) for noncompliance, in addition to the possibility of reopening the administrative investigation.

In a statement to 9to5Mac, Apple remarked:

> “To align with regulatory requirements from CADE, Apple is making modifications that will influence iOS applications in Brazil. While these changes may introduce new privacy and security challenges for users, we have endeavored to maintain safeguards against certain threats, including preserving critical protections for younger users. These measures will not eliminate all risks, but they will assist in ensuring that iOS continues to be the premier, most secure mobile platform accessible in Brazil and we will persist in advocating for users and developers.”

Apple has not yet disclosed details regarding the new fee structure or the protections it will establish for the Brazilian App Store, though they are expected to align with the frameworks in Europe, Japan, and the U.S. The final terms are anticipated to be revealed in the upcoming weeks, as the 105-day countdown is already underway.

Ted Lasso Season 4 Release News: What to Anticipate in 2024

**Ted Lasso Season 4: Anticipated Release and What to Expect**

Apple TV is preparing for an exhilarating year in 2026, featuring a mix of new and returning series that has viewers abuzz with excitement. Among the most eagerly awaited debuts is the comeback of the cherished comedy series, *Ted Lasso*, which is slated to launch in mid-2026.

### Expected Release Timing

The filming of *Ted Lasso* season 4 officially commenced in the summer of 2025, paving the way for a 2026 release. Although initial projections suggested a general premiere in 2026, insights from Warner Bros. TV head Channing Dungey have offered a clearer timeline. In a recent discussion with *Variety*, Dungey mentioned that the current intention is to unveil the new season around the second quarter of 2026, hinting at a mid-year launch.

### Popularity and Impact

Since its arrival in August 2020, *Ted Lasso* has won the affection of both audiences and critics, regularly ranking high in the Apple TV charts, even while contending with other hit series such as *Severance* and *Pluribus*. The show’s distinctive mix of humor, tenderness, and relatable narratives has established it as a prominent feature in the streaming arena.

### Timing with Global Events

The expected premiere of *Ted Lasso* season 4 may align with the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for the summer months. With the majority of matches taking place in the United States and additional games in Mexico and Canada, this global sporting event provides an ideal setting for the show’s return. Whether it launches during the World Cup or shortly afterward, it is likely to capitalize on the increased enthusiasm surrounding the tournament.

### Conclusion

As fans anxiously look forward to the resurgence of *Ted Lasso*, the blend of its proven popularity and the possibility of a summer release during the World Cup celebrations generates a wave of anticipation. With production in progress and a focused release timetable, audiences can expect more heartwarming and comedic moments from Ted and his crew in the next season. Are you prepared for the comeback of *Ted Lasso*?

Google One Presents 50% Off Annual 2 TB and AI Pro Plans

**Google One Presents Limited-Time Discounts for 2026: Seize Every Moment of the New Year**

Google One is currently offering a limited-time discount for new users in 2026, giving them the chance to save 50% on select annual plans, particularly the 2 TB and AI Pro options. This initiative promotes the idea of “Seizing every moment of the new year,” motivating users to benefit from increased storage and features.

### Pricing and Plans

1. **Basic 100 GB Plan**:
– **Discounted Price**: $9.99 (previously $19.99) for one year.
– **Usage**: The storage can be used across Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive.

2. **Premium 2 TB Plan**:
– **Discounted Price**: $49.99 for the first year (standard price $99.99).
– **Benefits**: Subscribers will earn 10% back in the Google Store and gain access to premium Workspace features, including extended Google Meet calls that can be broadcast to YouTube and enhanced Calendar scheduling options.

3. **Google AI Pro Plan**:
– **Discounted Price**: $99.99 for the first year (initially $199.99).
– **Features**: This plan comes with 2 TB of storage, Google Home Premium Standard, and a discount on YouTube Premium (14% off).

### Enhanced Features in the Gemini App

With the Google AI Pro plan, users can utilize the Gemini app, which features higher usage limits and advanced functionalities:

– **Gemini 3 Pro**:
– **Usage Limits**: 100 prompts daily.
– **Image Generation**:
– **Nano Banana**: Generate up to 1,000 images per day (compared to 100/day on the free version).
– **Nano Banana Pro**: Up to 100 images per day (versus 3/day on the free version).

– **Video Generation**:
– **Veo 3.1 Fast**: Create up to 3 videos daily.

– **Deep Research Reports**:
– Generate up to 20 reports using Gemini 3 Pro each day.

– **Context Window**:
– A 1 million token context window (roughly 1,500 pages of text) supports extensive tasks, including spreadsheet and code analysis.

### Additional Features

Subscribers will also gain from broader model access in Google AI Mode and the Gemini side panel in Google Workspace apps like Gmail, Drive, and Docs. Enhanced AI features are accessible in Google Photos, NotebookLM, Flow, and Whisk, while developers enjoy increased access in Google Antigravity, Gemini CLI, Gemini Code Assist, and Jules.

### Availability and Sign-Up

This Google One discount is specifically available for new subscribers and is anticipated to end around New Year’s Eve. Interested individuals can sign up by visiting

A Study of the Favorable, Unfavorable, and Difficult Aspects of Apple’s 2025 Prognosis

As 2025 comes to an end, here’s a recap of what has shaped Apple during the past year, both positively and negatively.

## The Good

### 1. iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 has received widespread praise, showcasing ProMotion, an Always-On Display, 48MP Main and Ultra Wide rear cameras, and the A19 chip, starting with 256GB of storage. This model has become the top recommendation for numerous users, indicating a substantial enhancement in Apple’s smartphone lineup.

### 2. Accessibility Advances
Apple has made significant progress in accessibility this year, rolling out features like Magnifier for Mac, Live Translation for AirPods, and improvements to Personal Voice. These efforts highlight Apple’s dedication to inclusiveness and considerate design.

### 3. iPadOS 26
iPadOS 26 has provided meaningful advancements in multitasking and window management, positioning the iPad as a more effective work instrument. These updates signify a pivotal change in Apple’s strategy regarding iPad usability, aligning it closer with conventional computing experiences.

### 4. Apple TV
The Apple TV subscription service has achieved notable success, with hit shows like “Severance” and “The Studio” gaining acclaim. The service is approaching its aim of becoming synonymous with high-quality television, similar to HBO’s reputation.

### 5. Liquid Glass
Liquid Glass has introduced a new visual style for Apple, encouraging rivals to innovate beyond simplistic designs. While views on its aesthetic differ, it signifies a crucial advancement in Apple’s design ethos.

## The Bad

### 1. iPhone Air
The iPhone Air, despite its forward-thinking design, has failed to connect with consumers. Problems such as limited camera capabilities and battery life issues have impeded its success, overshadowed by the allure of the iPhone 17.

### 2. Apple’s Hardware Design Status
Apple’s hardware design has stagnated, lacking the inventiveness and innovation of prior years. The absence of a dedicated industrial design leader since 2022 has contributed to this perception of stagnation.

### 3. Leadership Gaps
Apple has struggled to nurture internal talent for leadership roles, resulting in unclear succession plans. This has led to responsibilities being distributed among existing leaders, fostering uncertainty regarding the company’s future direction.

### 4. Apple Vision Pro
The Apple Vision Pro continues to be a costly venture with limited market appeal. Despite its technological features, it has not gained consumer interest, raising doubts about its product viability.

### 5. iPad
Although Apple launched two iPads in 2025, their overall significance has been minor. The absence of substantial hardware innovations has rendered the iPad feeling stagnant, even with the enhancements introduced by iPadOS 26.

## The Ugly

### 1. Apple Intelligence
Apple’s ambitious AI plans have not come to fruition, leading to dissatisfaction concerning its progress. The division seems to be in disarray, with minimal results from its efforts in the last two years.

### 2. Talent Drain
Apple has seen a considerable outflow of talent, with top engineers and designers departing for competitors. This trend raises concerns about the company’s capability to attract and maintain skilled professionals.

### 3. Tim Cook’s Compromises
Tim Cook’s leadership has focused heavily on shareholder interests, sometimes compromising Apple’s foundational values. This has fostered a perception of compromise within the company.

### 4. Ongoing Regulatory Challenges
Apple faces ongoing regulatory hurdles, coming under scrutiny for antitrust matters. While the company is defending its interests, these disputes highlight the complexities of operating on such a large scale.

### 5. Enough with the Negativity
In spite of these challenges, Apple Silicon remains a standout success, delivering remarkable performance across its devices. The division continues to set industry benchmarks, even if groundbreaking developments have been few in 2025.

What are your thoughts on Apple’s high points and low points for 2025? Share your opinions in the comments.