Apple has long been known for its strict guidelines when it comes to apps on the App Store. Recently, the company rejected submissions of iDOS 3, a new version of the popular DOS emulator, and UTM SE, an app that allows users to emulate operating systems like Windows on iOS. The rejection was based on guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines, which only allows for retro game emulators that specifically emulate retro game consoles.
Chaoji Li, the developer of iDOS 3, shared Apple’s reasoning for the rejection, stating that the app provides emulator functionality but does not specifically emulate a retro game console. Apple’s response to Li’s inquiries about compliance and what constitutes a retro game console were unclear and left Li feeling frustrated with the seemingly arbitrary decision-making process.
UTM SE also faced rejection from Apple, with the App Store Review Board stating that “PC is not a console” despite the presence of retro Windows/DOS games for the PC that the app could run. Apple also cited violation of guideline 2.5.2, which requires apps to be self-contained and prohibits the execution of code that introduces or changes features or functionality of the app. This decision left developers like UTM feeling at the mercy of Apple’s inconsistent rules and enforcement practices.
Apple’s stance on just-in-time (JIT) compilation has historically been opposed, yet UTM SE claims to not include JIT compilation in its app. Despite this, Apple clarified that UTM SE does not qualify for the exception under guideline 4.7 that allows for certain software not embedded in the binary. This lack of clarity and communication from Apple has left developers like UTM frustrated and uncertain about how to proceed with their app development.
As seen in previous App Store disputes, developers are forced to navigate through Apple’s ever-changing and sometimes unreasonable decision-making process. The power dynamic between Apple and developers is clear, with Apple acting as the sole rule maker and enforcer in the iOS ecosystem. This imbalance of power leaves developers feeling helpless and at the whim of Apple’s fickle decisions.
Ultimately, the rejection of retro game emulators like iDOS 3 and UTM SE showcases the ongoing battle between developers and Apple over app guidelines and restrictions. While Apple’s recent allowance of retro game emulators may have been seen as a step in the right direction, the conflicting and often unclear communication from Apple leaves developers frustrated and uncertain about the future of their apps on the App Store.
Apple’s decision to reject retro game emulators like iDOS 3 and UTM SE may have been influenced by recent antitrust scrutiny. The company has faced criticism over its control of the App Store and its restrictive guidelines, leading to increased pressure to allow for more flexibility and competition within the iOS ecosystem. The rejection of these apps may be a part of Apple’s efforts to maintain control over the App Store and prevent apps that could potentially challenge its dominance.
The rejection of retro game emulators by Apple highlights the ongoing struggle between developers and the tech giant. The lack of transparency, inconsistent enforcement of guidelines, and unequal power dynamics all contribute to a challenging environment for developers looking to innovate and bring new experiences to iOS users. As Apple continues to face scrutiny over its app policies, the battle between developers and the App Store is likely to persist.
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