Apple made significant updates to its App Store guidelines on Friday, permitting the inclusion of emulators for retro console games globally, with the option for users to download titles. However, Apple cautioned that developers must ensure compliance with copyright regulations.
While Android users already enjoy access to numerous emulators for playing classic games on their devices, Apple’s policy change is expected to motivate developers to bring their emulators to the App Store.
According to Apple, emulator apps must incorporate an in-app purchase mechanism for offering digital items. This adjustment in App Store rules, prompted by regulatory requirements, could serve as an additional revenue source for the company.
In January, Apple announced its compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by permitting global streaming game stores. Additionally, it updated App Store rules to facilitate in-app purchases for mini-games and AI chatbots.
On Friday, Apple further refined its guidelines to encompass HTML5-based mini-apps, possibly to accommodate services provided by super apps like WeChat.
“Apps may offer certain software that is not embedded in the binary, specifically HTML5 mini apps and mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, and plug-ins. Additionally, retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games,” the clause stated.
Regarding the recent lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against Apple, one of the grievances included the suppression of super apps. This highlights concerns about Apple’s alleged monopolistic practices.
Another notable revision in the rules allows music streaming services, such as Spotify, to display subscription information and digital purchase details, including links to redirect users to their website for completing transactions.
Despite Spotify’s submission of an update to display pricing information for EU-based users, Apple has yet to approve it. In response, Spotify emphasized the importance of Apple complying with legal requirements.
“Following the law is not optional, but Apple continues to defy that decision. Effective April 6th, the Commission can start noncompliance proceedings and impose daily fines. It’s time for decisive action to once and for all give consumers real choice,” stated Spotify spokesperson Jeanne Moran.
