Apple officially allows retro game emulators to be available on the App Store

In addition to updating its developer guidelines to allow music streaming apps to link to external websites, Apple has also added new language to allow game emulators on the App Store.The first thing to note in the updated guidance is 9 to 5, now that retro console emulator apps are so popular they even offer downloadable games. Apple also reportedly confirmed in an email to developers that they can create and offer emulators on its marketplace.

Prior to this update, emulator software was not allowed in the App Store, although developers were always looking for ways to distribute emulator software to iOS users. To be able to install them, users often need to first resort to jailbreaking and downloading sideloading tools or unapproved alternative app stores. This rules update may eliminate the need for users to go through all this trouble and may bring more Android emulators to iOS.

However, Apple warns developers that they are “responsible for [their] applications, including ensuring that such software complies with these guidelines and all applicable laws. “Obviously, allowing emulators on the App Store doesn’t mean it also allows pirated games. It’s a no-no for any app that offers developers not to offer downloadable games to own the rights to, so fans of a specific console can only hope that their company plans to release an official emulator for iOS. While these latest changes to Apple’s developer guidelines appear to be driven by the EU’s Digital Markets Regulation, which targets anti-competitive behavior by big tech companies, the emulator’s new rules apply to all developers worldwide.

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