Apple recently rejected submissions of iDOS 3 and UTM SE, preventing retro game emulators from being available on the App Store. The rejection was based on guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines, which specifically allows for retro game emulators. However, Apple claimed that both iDOS 3 and UTM SE did not meet the criteria as they were not emulating a retro game console specifically. This has led to confusion among developers as Apple failed to provide clear guidance on what changes are needed for compliance.
Chaoji Li, the developer of iDOS 3, expressed frustration with Apple’s decision, stating that when asked about how to make the app compliant, Apple had no clear answers. Moreover, when inquired about what constitutes a retro game console, Apple’s response was vague and unhelpful. This lack of transparency from Apple has left developers like Li feeling frustrated and powerless in navigating the App Store’s guidelines.
UTM SE also faced rejection from Apple, with the App Store Review Board arguing that “PC is not a console,” therefore disqualifying UTM SE as a retro game emulator. Despite UTM SE’s capability of running retro Windows/DOS games, Apple cited guideline 2.5.2 as the reason for rejection. This guideline prohibits apps from executing code that introduces or changes features, which Apple claimed UTM SE violated.
Apple’s stance on retro game emulators appears contradictory, as it allows apps to offer certain software that is not embedded in the binary under guideline 4.7. However, this exception seems to only apply to App Store apps, excluding UTM SE. The lack of consistency in Apple’s guidelines and decision-making process has left developers in a state of uncertainty and frustration, with no clear path to compliance.
Developers like Chaoji Li and UTM have expressed helplessness in challenging Apple’s decisions regarding their apps. As the sole authority in the iOS ecosystem, Apple’s arbitrary enforcement of guidelines leaves developers at the mercy of the company’s whims. Li highlighted the lack of consistency in Apple’s decision-making, stating that developers do not have the power to challenge Apple’s rulings.
Apple’s recent decision to allow retro game emulators on the App Store may have been influenced by antitrust scrutiny. The company has faced accusations of anti-competitive behavior, prompting it to make changes to appease regulators. However, the vague and inconsistent enforcement of guidelines continues to create challenges for developers seeking to publish emulator apps on the App Store.
Apple’s rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE highlights the challenges developers face in navigating the App Store’s guidelines. The lack of clarity, consistency, and transparency in Apple’s decision-making process has created frustration and helplessness among developers. As Apple continues to face antitrust scrutiny, it remains to be seen whether the company will provide clearer guidelines for retro game emulators in the future.
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