Apple’s Rejection of Retro Video Game Emulators on the App Store

Recently, Apple has come under fire for rejecting submissions of iDOS 3 and UTM SE, two popular retro video game emulators. The company cited guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines, which allows for retro game emulators, as the reason for the rejections. However, the developers of both apps were left puzzled by Apple’s decision as they were told that the apps do not specifically emulate retro game consoles.

In the case of iDOS 3, Apple stated that the app provides emulator functionality but does not emulate a retro game console specifically. This vague reasoning left the developer, Chaoji Li, frustrated as Apple failed to provide clear guidelines on how to make the app compliant with their standards. Similarly, UTM SE was rejected on the grounds that “PC is not a console,” despite the fact that the emulator can run retro Windows/DOS games.

Both developers expressed confusion over Apple’s guidelines and decision-making process. When Chaoji Li asked Apple for clarification on what constitutes a retro game console, he was met with an unsatisfactory response. Apple’s insistence on the distinction between retro game consoles and other emulated systems has left developers scratching their heads and feeling at the mercy of Apple’s arbitrary rule enforcement.

Additionally, UTM SE faced further hurdles as Apple cited guideline 2.5.2 as another reason for rejection, stating that the app violated rules regarding self-contained apps that cannot execute code which changes the app’s functionality. Despite UTM SE not including just-in-time compilation, Apple deemed the app unsuitable for the App Store, further adding to the confusion surrounding their decision-making process.

The rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE highlights the frustrations developers face when trying to navigate Apple’s App Store guidelines. The lack of transparency and consistency in Apple’s decision-making process leaves developers feeling helpless and unsure of how to proceed. Chaoji Li expressed his frustration with Apple’s handling of the situation, stating that the company’s arbitrary rule enforcement puts developers at a disadvantage.

Similarly, UTM SE’s developers decided not to pursue further action to get the app on the App Store, citing it as a subpar experience not worth fighting for. This decision reflects the challenges developers face when trying to meet Apple’s stringent requirements while also providing a quality user experience.

Apple’s recent decision to allow retro game emulators on the App Store may have been influenced by antitrust scrutiny and regulatory pressure. The company has been under increased scrutiny for its control over the App Store and its treatment of developers. By opening the door to retro game emulators, Apple may be trying to appease critics and show a willingness to make changes to its policies.

Apple’s rejection of retro video game emulators on the App Store highlights the challenges developers face when trying to navigate the company’s strict guidelines. The lack of transparency, clarity, and consistency in Apple’s decision-making process leaves developers feeling frustrated and powerless. As Apple continues to face scrutiny over its App Store practices, it remains to be seen how the company will respond to developer concerns and make the platform more developer-friendly.