Apple Allows Game Emulators and External Links in App Store Guidelines

Key Takeaways

• Apple has updated its developer guidelines to allow game emulators on the App Store, including retro gaming console emulator apps.
• Emulator software was previously not allowed on the App Store, leading users to resort to jailbreaking and downloading sideloading tools.
• The update potentially eliminates the need for users to go through such lengths and could bring more Android emulators to iOS.
• Developers are now responsible for ensuring that the software offered in their app complies with guidelines and laws, including no pirated games.
• The new rule on emulators applies to all developers worldwide and is not limited to the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation.

News Content

Apple has updated its developer guidelines to allow game emulators on the App Store, encouraging the development and distribution of retro gaming console emulator apps that can offer downloadable games. This move potentially eliminates the need for users to resort to jailbreaking and sideloading tools, bringing more Android emulators to iOS. However, Apple warns developers that they are responsible for ensuring the compliance of such software with the guidelines and applicable laws, emphasizing the prohibition of pirated games. These changes seem to be motivated by the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation, targeting big tech companies' anti-competitive practices.

The updated guidelines also allow music streaming apps to link to external websites for purchase. However, the permission for emulators does not extend to pirated games, and developers are responsible for ensuring compliance with guidelines and laws. The changes are seen to align with the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation and apply to developers worldwide.

It is noteworthy that Apple's latest modifications to its developer guidelines enable the inclusion of game emulators on the App Store, as well as the integration of external links for music streaming apps. However, developers are reminded of their responsibility to comply with the guidelines and laws, underscoring the prohibition of pirated games. This development is considered to be a response to the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation, aiming to address anti-competitive practices of major tech companies.

Analysis

Apple's recent update to its developer guidelines, allowing game emulators on the App Store, is likely influenced by the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation, targeting anti-competitive practices of big tech firms. This move enables the development and distribution of retro gaming console emulator apps, potentially reducing the need for jailbreaking and sideloading tools. Short-term consequences could involve an influx of emulator apps and increased accessibility to downloadable games. Long-term, it may reshape the app ecosystem and impact competition among tech companies. Apple's emphasis on prohibiting pirated games indicates a commitment to legal and regulatory compliance, aligning with the EU regulation. This shift reflects a broader trend of tech firms adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes.

Do You Know?

• Game Emulators on App Store: The updated Apple developer guidelines now allow for the inclusion of game emulators on the App Store. This change encourages the development and distribution of retro gaming console emulator apps, potentially eliminating the need for jailbreaking and sideloading tools. However, developers are warned that they are responsible for ensuring compliance with guidelines and laws, with a clear emphasis on prohibiting pirated games.

• EU's Digital Markets Act Regulation: The modifications to Apple's developer guidelines are seen as a response to the EU's Digital Markets Act regulation. This regulation targets anti-competitive practices of major tech companies and has influenced the changes allowing game emulators and external links for music streaming apps on the App Store. These changes apply to developers worldwide and signal a proactive approach by Apple to align with regulatory requirements.

• Music Streaming Apps and External Links: Alongside the inclusion of game emulators, the updated guidelines also permit music streaming apps to link to external websites for purchases. This adjustment indicates a shift in Apple's approach to app functionality and integration with external content platforms. Developers are reminded of their responsibility to ensure compliance with guidelines and laws, particularly in regard to the prohibition of pirated content.