The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) considers Apple’s decision to allow the distribution of regulated sports betting and online gaming applications on its Brazilian App Store a key milestone for strengthening an ethical and transparent sector.

The measure reinforces regulation by enabling bettors to clearly identify which operators are properly authorized to operate in compliance with national rules.

Following Google’s decision less than a year ago to allow the distribution of sports betting apps through the Play Store in Brazil, this initiative serves as a powerful cybersecurity filter and helps protect consumers from the risks associated with the illegal market.

Since only operators licensed by the SPA are permitted to offer services to iOS users, the channeling process toward the regulated environment is further strengthened. However, for the measure to be truly effective, oversight must remain continuous, as several illegal applications can still be found on major platforms.

Data from Instituto Locomotiva, in partnership with LCA Consultoria, indicate that the illegal environment much of which is controlled by organized crime moves approximately R$40 billion annually in Brazil and generates estimated yearly tax revenue losses of R$10.8 billion. In this context, actions that make it easier to distinguish between legal and unauthorized operators are essential.

The presence of apps on both the Play Store and the Apple App Store also reinforces the industry’s commitment to Responsible Gaming, as these platforms integrate features required by legislation and audited by the stores themselves. These measures include strict age verification to prevent access by minors under 18, the clear display of warnings regarding the risks associated with gambling, and the availability of self-exclusion mechanisms.