Recently, Apple has relaxed its strict control over the App Store, allowing various retro game emulators to operate on iOS in anticipation of the iOS 18 launch. However, the company has now taken a firm stance against permitting PC emulators on its devices.
According to The Verge, Apple has rejected apps from at least two developers of PC emulators. These include iDOS 3, which emulates the DOS operating system, and UTM SE, designed for running Windows on iOS.
Chaoji Li, developer of iDOS 3, received feedback from Apple stating that while the app provides emulator functionality, it does not emulate a retro game console specifically. Apple’s guideline 4.7 specifies that only emulators of retro game consoles are permissible, as they can offer downloadable games.
Similarly, the developer of UTM SE noted that Apple’s App Store Review Board determined that “PC is not a console,” despite the emulator’s capability to run retro Windows/DOS games.
While Apple has embraced retro game emulators for consoles like Nintendo 3DS and PS1 on iPhones and iPads, it has drawn a clear line against PC emulators, sparking controversy.
Developers have long criticized Apple for its inconsistent and opaque App Store review process. Despite guideline 4.7 allowing retro game emulators, there remains confusion over Apple’s definition of “retro.”
Chaoji Li expressed frustration on their blog, stating Apple provided no clear guidance on compliance or what qualifies as a retro game console, relying instead on subjective judgments.
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