• Apple cans knockoff Game Boy app as emulators suffer first App Store casualty

    Frankly, another unauthorized software related to Nintendo getting taken down is par for the course and not all that surprising. However, it is notable that iGBA's takedown originated from something other than Nintendo's DMCA legal hounds. Apple either removed it for its own reasons or the developer of the GBA4iOSRead Entire Article

  • Game Boy Emulator Leads the Charge as Apple App Store Opens Doors to Game Emulators

    For the first time, Apple's App Store has allowed iPhone game emulators, such as iGBA, to enable users to download and play ROMs directly on their devices.

  • Apple Updates App Store Guidelines to Permit Game Emulators, Website Links in EU Music Apps

    Apple today updated its App Store guidelines to comply with an anti-steering mandate levied by the European Commission. Music streaming apps like Spotify are now permitted to include a link or buy button that leads to a website with information about alternative music purchasing options, though this is only permitted in the European Economic Area. Music Streaming Services Entitlements: music streaming apps in specific regions can use Music Streaming Services Entitlements to include a link...

  • What to Know About Apple Allowing Game Emulators in the App Store

    Apple updated its App Review Guidelines this month to allow "retro game console emulator apps" on the App Store for the iPhone and other devices. Below, we outline everything to know about these emulators and available options so far. This information is up to date as of April 2024, but Apple's policies could change over time. What is Allowed Apple told us that emulators that can load games (ROMs) are permitted on the App Store, so long as the apps are emulating "retro console games"...

  • The Morning After: Apple allows game emulators on the App Store

    Apple, in its latest update to its App Store developer guidelines for iPhones and iPads, flagged by 9to5Mac, says it will allow game console emulators – and even downloadable games. Apple warns developers, however, they “are responsible for all such software offered in [their] app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws.” So don’t expect to play Super Mario, Spyro, or a third game series that starts with an 'S'. Meanwhile, we have a guide to...

  • Here's why Apple removed the first Game Boy emulator from the App Store

    Earlier this month, Apple revised its App Store Guidelines to permit game emulator apps for the first time. On Saturday, one of the first such apps was approved: iGBA. This app allowed users to import and play ROMs download from the internet. On Sunday, however, the app was pulled from the App Store without full explanation. Apple has now provided more clarity on why iGBA was removed from the App Store after initially being approved. more

  • Gaming emulators are now on the App Store after Apple relaxed the rules

    After Apple changed its policy allowing gaming emulators from third party developers on the App Store, the first ones have started to show up.

  • Apple to Allow Retro Game Emulators on the App Store Soon

    Could we see an influx of emulation apps on iOS soon?

  • Apple officially allows retro game emulators on the App Store

    In addition to updating its developer guidelines to allow music streaming apps to link to external website, Apple has also added new language that allows game emulators on the App Store. The updated guidelines, first noticed by 9to5Mac, now say that retro gaming console emulator apps are welcome and can even offer downloadable games. Apple also reportedly confirmed to developers in an email that they can create and offer emulators on its marketplace.  Emulator software wasn't allowed on the App...

  • Apple now allows classic game emulators on the App Store

    A change to the App Store rules reverses a very old rule that prohibited emulators on the iPhone and iPad. Classic game emulation won't be limited to Mac for very long One of the App Store's longest standing rules is a prohibition on apps that run external code. This has meant a de facto ban on console and classic game emulators. A change to guideline 4.7 of the App Store changes all that. Specifically, Apple is now allowing "software that is not embedded in the binary" to run...

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    Apple eases restrictions and officially allows game emulators on the App Store

    Apple has eased the App Store restrictions and now officially allows retro game emulators to offer downloadable games. However, Apple emphasizes that games should adhere to all relevant laws.

  • Apple App Store: Retro Game Emulators are Coming Globally, Not Only in EU

    Apple claimed that it will soon allow game emulators on the App Store in the future. The latest update of Apple is a massive treat for retro game lovers, particularly as the App Store will soon allow game emulators to be available to download to iOS, iPadOS, and possibly, macOS.