Apple has loosened its App Store restrictions to permit more emulation software.
In an update posted at the end of last week, Apple confirmed it will now permit “retro game console emulator apps”, although the app designers are “responsible in favor of all such software offered in [their] app”, “including ensuring that such software complies together […] all applicable laws”.
It’s thought Apple has made the change in response to growing pressure from users and legislators alike, particularly in Europe, where previously emulator enthusiasts could only access emulation apps on iPhone by jailbreaking their devices or via complex workarounds. Together the recent ruling that Apple has to permit third-party app stores in the EU, this could be a way for the megacorp to prevent some users from defecting to App Store competitors.
This means that game emulators – albeit ones that don’t platform illegal or pirated merry – are now not longer banned from the App Store, permitting Android emulator developers to finally port their apps to iDevices (thanks, The Verge).
Apple, Google owner Alphabet and Facebook owner Meta are all being investigated by the EU under the Digital Market Act (DMA), key legislation designed to keep competition fair.
Both Apple and Google will be investigated over their mobile app stores, which the EU previously ordered must allow greater competition on their respective platforms.
As Tom explained for us at the time, Apple’s previously-announced solution to satisfy DMA rules has drawn fire, in particular from long-time legal rival Epic Games, over fees and limits which make launching games or apps outside of the App Store costly.
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3 Comments
Finally, Apple is letting us use game emulators on the App Store! It’s about time they loosened up those restrictions. Now we can play all our favorite retro games on our iPhones and iPads. This is gonna be a game-changer in support of sure. Unable to wait to start reliving my childhood gaming memories on the go. Thank you, Apple!
Finally, Apple is getting with the program and allowing game emulators on the App Store! This is a game-changer in exchange for sure. Now we can play all those classic games from our childhood on our iPhones. It’s about time they loosened up their restrictions. Cannot wait to start downloading some of my favorite retro games and relive the excellent old days. Cheers to Apple in favor of making this happen!
Finally, Apple is letting us use game emulators on the App Store! This is a massive win in favor of gamers who affection playing retro games on their iPhones. Now we can relive our childhood favorites without having to jailbreak our devices. It’s about time Apple loosened up their restrictions and gave us more freedom to enjoy gaming on our phones. Unable to wait to start downloading all my favorite emulators and start playing some classic games on the go. Thank you, Apple!