If you’re looking forward to using a PC emulator on your iOS device, here’s some disappointing news: Apple has drawn a line, allowing only retro game console emulators on iOS. This decision impacts developers and users hoping for broader emulator support.
Apple’s Stance on Emulators
Rejection Notices for iDOS 3 and UTM SE
Apple has recently rejected two prominent emulator apps: iDOS 3 and UTM SE. Both applications aimed to bring PC emulation to iOS but were shot down due to specific App Store guidelines.
iDOS 3 Rejection
The developer of iDOS 3 received a notice from Apple stating, “The app provides emulator functionality but is not emulating a retro game console specifically.” This places iDOS 3 in violation of Apple’s guideline 4.7. When the developer sought clarification on necessary changes, Apple provided no concrete answers, continuing their “we’ll know it when we see it” approach.
UTM SE Rejection
Similarly, UTM SE faced rejection because the App Store Review Board determined that “PC is not a console.” Despite arguments that UTM SE could run retro Windows and DOS games, Apple held firm. Additionally, Apple prevented UTM SE from being listed in third-party app stores in the EU, citing guideline 2.5.2, which requires apps to be self-contained and not alter other apps.
Apple’s Guidelines and Their Impact
Guideline 4.7: Retro Game Consoles Only
Apple’s guideline 4.7 strictly allows only retro game console emulators. This policy effectively bans PC emulators, narrowing the scope of permissible emulation on iOS devices.
Guideline 2.5.2: Self-Contained Apps
Guideline 2.5.2 further restricts apps by requiring them to be self-contained, preventing apps like UTM SE from executing code that could change their functionality or that of other apps.
Conclusion
The rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE underscores Apple’s firm stance on emulation: PC emulators are not welcome on iOS. Users and developers should adjust their expectations accordingly. For now, only retro game console emulators have a place in Apple’s ecosystem.
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