Apple has updated its App Store developer guidelines to allow PC emulator apps to upload games. Previously, the guidelines only permitted console emulators to upload games. Now, under section 4.7, PC emulators are also included. This change follows the App Store’s approval of UTM SE, an app that emulates older versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux to run classic software and games.
Apple initially rejected UTM SE in June after it began allowing retro game emulators in April. The company told UTM SE’s developers that their app violated the App Store guidelines because “a PC is not a console.” Apple later approved the emulator after the developers made some changes. UTM SE is the first PC emulator app to be approved in the App Store, but today’s rule changes will make it easier for other similar software solutions to be approved. We’ll keep you updated on any further developments in this area.
New Guidelines for EU App Notarization
Apple also updated specific guidelines for notarization of apps distributed outside the App Store in the European Union. Apps distributed outside the App Store are not subject to all of Apple’s rules but must meet a number of requirements to be notarized, notes NIXSolutions. Products that are not notarized will not run on Apple devices.
The changes to the App Store rules affect the following sections:
- 4.7 — allows mini-apps, mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, plugins, and game emulators
- 4.7.2 — prohibits apps from extending or exposing native platform APIs to software without Apple’s permission
- 4.7.3 — prohibits apps from sharing data or privacy permissions with any software without user consent
These guidelines were not previously part of the EU notarization process. As the landscape of app distribution continues to evolve, we’ll keep you informed of any significant changes to Apple’s policies and guidelines.