San Francisco, California – Apple’s latest update to the App Store’s app review policies has opened the door for a new type of app – retro game console emulators. The language in the update now allows for software that is not embedded in the app’s binary, specifically mentioning emulator apps that offer to download games. This move marks a significant shift for Apple, which has long prohibited apps that run code from external sources.
One of the key changes in the new policy states, “retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games.” This update has raised questions about how this will affect the availability of emulators that enable users to play retro games from various external sources. These emulators typically run ROM files, which are images of game cartridges or discs used on console hardware.
The legality of ROM files varies, with some being in the public domain or distributed with the creator’s permission, while others are copyrighted intellectual property. Game publishers often use emulators to run ROMs of their own retro games, selling them to consumers through standalone apps or collections for modern platforms.
Apple’s new rules suggest that only companies owning the intellectual property of retro games may launch emulator apps for downloading game ROMs. This means that a company like Sega could offer an app allowing users to access a library of Sega games, potentially through a subscription model or in-app purchases. This shift could pave the way for more seamless access to retro games on Apple devices.
The update does not seem to be limited to a specific region, as Apple has faced regulatory scrutiny in both the European Union and the United States regarding its App Store policies. While the company did not provide specific reasons for the change, it mentioned that it aims to “support updated policies, upcoming features, and to provide clarification.”
Overall, Apple’s decision to allow retro game console emulator apps marks a significant shift in its approach to app review policies. This change opens up new possibilities for developers and users alike, potentially leading to a more diverse range of gaming experiences on Apple devices.