Apple Allows Licensed Betting Apps in Brazil

Apple has updated its App Store policies in Brazil, allowing licensed fixed-odds betting operators to distribute gambling applications through the iOS platform. The revised guidelines came into effect on May 8 and apply only to companies holding a valid licence issued by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting of the Ministry of Finance (SPA-MF).

The change reflects the continued development of Brazil’s regulated betting market following the legalisation of sports betting and iGaming operations in the country. Until now, Apple maintained stricter controls over gambling-related applications in Brazil, leading many operators to rely on mobile websites and progressive web apps instead of native iOS applications.

Under the updated policy, licensed operators can now distribute betting apps directly through official App Store channels. The move is also expected to help distinguish regulated operators from unlicensed platforms operating outside the country’s legal framework.

To publish applications on the App Store, operators must comply with Apple’s App Review requirements. Developers are required to submit a completely new version of the application rather than simply updating information through the review section.

Apple also requires operators to provide licence details issued by the SPA-MF during the submission process. Companies must include licensing information in the App Review notes and upload supporting documentation proving their authorisation to operate within Brazil.

In addition, all gambling-related applications must carry an 18+ age rating. According to Apple, this classification will automatically apply if developers confirm gambling-related content during the submission process.

Applications submitted to the App Store will continue to undergo compliance reviews focused on consumer protection standards and local gambling regulations. Apple has also advised operators to consult legal experts to ensure their apps align with Brazilian regulatory requirements.

The policy update represents another step in the recognition of Brazil’s regulated betting framework by major international technology platforms. Industry stakeholders have increasingly highlighted the importance of cooperation between app distribution platforms and local gambling regulators as the market continues to expand.

The availability of native betting applications could also influence competition among licensed operators in Brazil. Mobile devices remain the primary access point for online betting services and dedicated applications may improve user experience, customer retention and marketing capabilities through features such as push notifications and integrated CRM tools.