Apple App Store Rejected Two PC Emulators for iOS, Only for Retro Games?

Apple is back to rejecting emulators on the App Store, but this time, it is for specific ones. A new report saw two new PC emulators for iOS denied acceptance to the app marketplace platform. One of the developers of the said PC emulator shared the specific violation of the App Store guidelines that Apple claimed was the reason for its rejection.

It is known that Apple only recently allowed retro game emulation on the platform to be downloaded from the App Store after numerous years of developers trying to bring this experience to all.

Apple App Store Rejected PC Emulators on iOS

The Verge reported that Apple rejected two PC emulators that tried to make their way to iOS, including the iDOS 3 and UTM SE apps, which have still not made their way to the platform. Apple later revealed that its apps are violating the App Store's App Review Guidelines, particularly its rule under no. 4.7, which talks about emulators.

It was detailed by iDOS 3 developer Chaoji Li via a blog post that two months ago, Apple 'blacklisted' iDOS 2, and he resubmitted it under iDOS 3, which was then again rejected.

This June, Li was given an update on why their app was rejected, and Apple claimed that it is not a retro game emulator.

App Store Guidelines: Only Retro Game Emulators?

Apple's App Review Guidelines no 4.7 centers on game emulators and their provisions. However, both apps are said to emulate more of the PCs, particularly the Windows operating system, and not the gaming experience.

UTM also shared Apple's rejection of their app and that their notarization violated rule 2.5.2.

Apple's Retro Game Emulator Era on iOS

It is over two months since Apple first allowed retro game emulators to arrive on the App Store, inviting developers to apply their apps for review before allowing them to be downloaded and installed on iPhones. This was a massive surprise, particularly as it came alongside the EU DMA's enforcement, but Apple assured that this is for all to experience.

Among the first emulators on the Apple App Store were the ever-famous Game Boy Advance (GBA) emulators from different developers. The likes of Delta made massive waves in the industry, and it was later followed by other retro gaming consoles, including DS availability, 3DS, PlayStation, PlayStation Portable (PSP), and more.

There has been no shortage of emulation experiences made available to iOS, like what Android users enjoyed for many years, as it has been available on the Play Store since its dawn. However, not all kinds of emulators are permitted on the App Store, with its guidelines mostly upholding a special place for retro game emulators. However, for those who like bringing the PC experience, it is not yet allowed on iOS.