The App Store will soon list game emulators for download.
Photo: Apple
Apple is opening up its walled garden to game emulators. The company has updated its App Store guidelines to show that developers can now list game emulators for download worldwide.
In addition, the updated guidelines make it easier for music streaming apps to redirect users to an external website. However, this change only applies to the EU.
The game emulator cannot display pirated content
For years, Apple banned developers from listing downloadable game emulators on the App Store. He actively removed such applications that passed the review process.
That will no longer be the case, thanks to revised App Store guidelines. However, developers must ensure that all listed games in their emulators comply with applicable laws. So don’t expect pirated games to be available for download.
Apple’s updated App Store Guidelines, point 4.7, state: “In addition, retro game console emulator applications may offer game downloads. You are responsible for all such software provided in your application, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws.”
The new Rights for Music Streaming Services section of the App Store Guidelines allows music streaming apps to connect to an external location. This can be in the form of a “buy” button and contain pricing information. Music streaming applications may use this right to inform users of alternative ways to purchase content or services.
This right is limited to the iOS and iPadOS App Store and is only available in the EU.
The App Store’s tweaked guidelines come amid intense regulatory pressure on Apple
The change in Apple’s stance is welcome and likely stems from increased regulatory scrutiny and the EU’s Digital Markets Act. The latter forced Apple to open the App Store to alternative browsers and sideloading apps.
Recently, the US government filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple for “anti-competitive and exclusive conduct,” targeting the iPhone monopoly.
Given Apple’s intense scrutiny, expect the compact to make more changes to App Store guidelines in the coming weeks.