In an effort to allow developers to introduce emulators for retro console games across the globe, tech giant Apple has recently made significant updates to its App Store rules. The Cupertino-based tech giant has also said that it will offer its users the option to download titles from these emulators for classic console games, as reported by the Times of India. The company highlighted that developers must ensure that they comply with copyright regulations.
While Android users already enjoy access to a plethora of emulators to play classic games on their devices, the iPhone maker’s updated policy is expected to expand the range of gaming experiences available to iOS users as well as incentivize some of those developers to bring their emulators to the App Store.
Under the new rules, game emulators have been banned from iOS, and emulator apps must use an in-app purchase system to offer digital items. The update comes in the wake of Apple adapting its App Store policies to meet regulatory requirements, such as the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), potentially opening up new revenue streams for the tech giant.
An emulator allows a computer system (the host) to perform the functions of another (the guest). An emulator allows a host system to run software and programmes designed for the guest system, such as a game.
Retro game emulators provide consumers with a simple way to play retro games. These tools save users from hunting down expensive copies of vintage games by offering a service that allows players to choose, download, and play any game that is made accessible.
Aside from the new rules on emulators, Apple has also modified its guidelines for super apps such as WeChat. The company will now enable mini-games and mini-apps within these apps. However, developers must use HTML5-based mini-apps, indicating that such apps cannot be native apps or games.
In addition to that, the notable change in the rules will benefit music streaming services like Spotify, allowing them to display subscription information and links to drive users to their websites to complete purchases. However, Spotify has voiced concerns about Apple’s delay in approving its recent update submission, despite the changes in App Store rules.
As per a report by The Verge, an antitrust lawsuit filed by the United States may have forced Apple to make this adjustment. The lawsuit accuses the company of attempting to push both cloud game streaming apps and super apps out of business.
Recently, the company also started permitting cloud streaming services, like GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming on the App Store.
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