Apple is facing increased scrutiny from the European Union regarding its stringent App Store regulations, which limit alternative payment methods and prohibit app sideloading. In compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which took effect for major tech firms in March, Apple, along with competitors such as Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft, has introduced several policy adjustments. One notable change is Apple’s decision to permit game emulator applications on its App Store.
The company, based in Cupertino, California, has enforced rigorous standards for the software available on its platform. Previously, game emulators—which allow devices to replicate the hardware of different gaming platforms—were banned from the App Store. However, Apple’s updated App Review Guidelines now allow developers to create and distribute emulation software globally on the App Store.
In the section of the guidelines addressing “Mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators,” Apple stated, “Additionally, retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games.” An article by 9to5Mac reported that Apple has communicated this change to developers through an email.
Despite this development, Apple clarified that developers are accountable for the emulation software included in their apps and must ensure compliance with both Apple’s guidelines and relevant laws. Applications that do not adhere to these rules will be denied access to the App Store.
The future of third-party emulation software for retro games published by companies such as Nintendo and Sega remains uncertain, as game developers have historically taken action against emulators of their games on alternate devices.
In a separate update to its app policies, Apple will now allow music streaming services, including Spotify, to provide users with links directing them to their own websites for purchases. Users within the European Economic Area can now share their email addresses with music streaming applications to receive a link for making payments for digital services.
