Apple recently rejected submissions of iDOS 3 and UTM SE, which are popular retro video game emulators. The company cited guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines as the reason for the rejection. This guideline specifically allows for retro game emulators, but Apple claimed that the newly submitted apps did not meet the criteria because they were not emulating a retro game console.
Chaoji Li, the developer of iDOS 3, expressed frustration with Apple’s decision. He shared Apple’s reasoning for the rejection, stating that the app provides emulator functionality but does not specifically emulate a retro game console. When Li asked Apple for clarification on how to become compliant with the guidelines, he received vague responses. Apple’s lack of clear guidance left developers like Li feeling frustrated and confused.
UTM SE, another retro video game emulator app, also faced rejection from Apple. The App Store Review Board determined that “PC is not a console,” which led to the app being barred from the platform. Additionally, UTM SE violated guideline 2.5.2, which states that apps must be self-contained and cannot execute code that introduces or changes features of the app or other apps. Despite not including just-in-time compilation, UTM SE did not meet Apple’s requirements for inclusion on the App Store.
Apple’s inconsistent decision-making process has left developers feeling helpless. The company’s authority as the sole rule maker and enforcer in the iOS ecosystem allows them to make arbitrary decisions without explanation. Developers like Chaoji Li and the team behind UTM SE have no choice but to accept Apple’s decisions, even when they feel unjust or unreasonable.
Future Outlook
Despite the setbacks faced by retro video game emulator developers, Apple’s recent policy changes hint at a potential shift in the company’s approach. Apple likely opened the door to retro game emulators in response to antitrust scrutiny, and it recently launched support for third-party app stores in the EU to comply with regulations. While the current situation may be discouraging for developers, there is hope for a more inclusive app ecosystem in the future.
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