Apple has recently rejected submissions of iDOS 3 and UTM SE, both of which are popular emulators, from the App Store. The rejection is based on guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines, which allows for retro game emulators. However, Apple stated that these new releases violated this guideline as they were not specifically emulating retro game consoles.
The developer of iDOS 3, Chaoji Li, shared Apple’s reasoning for the rejection, stating that the app provides emulator functionality but does not specifically emulate a retro game console. This has led to confusion, as Apple has not provided clear guidance on what changes are needed to comply with their guidelines.
Similarly, UTM SE, an app that lets users emulate operating systems like Windows on iOS, was also rejected by Apple. The App Store Review Board determined that “PC is not a console,” even though there are retro Windows/DOS games for the PC that UTM SE could run. Additionally, Apple cited guideline 2.5.2 as a reason for the rejection, stating that apps cannot execute code that introduces or changes features or functionality of the app, including other apps.
Apple’s Inconsistencies and Confusion
Despite Apple’s guidelines allowing for retro game emulators, the rejections of iDOS 3 and UTM SE highlight the inconsistencies and confusion that developers face when trying to navigate the App Store’s review process. Apple’s decision-making appears fickle, with developers left at the mercy of unclear and ever-changing rules.
Chaoji Li described Apple’s response as “unreasonable” and noted that when seeking clarification on what constitutes a retro game console, Apple could not provide a concrete answer. This lack of transparency and consistency in Apple’s review process can be frustrating for developers who are trying to create innovative and exciting apps for users.
Additionally, UTM SE’s experience further illustrates the challenges developers face when trying to understand and comply with Apple’s guidelines. Despite not including just-in-time compilation, a feature typically not allowed by Apple, UTM SE was still rejected based on guideline 4.7. This inconsistency in applying the guidelines can make it difficult for developers to anticipate what changes are needed to meet Apple’s requirements.
Apple’s Motivation Behind the Rejections
Apple’s rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE comes at a time when the company is facing increased antitrust scrutiny. The decision to allow retro game emulators in response to this scrutiny may have led to the rejections, as Apple seeks to maintain control over the apps available on its platform. Additionally, Apple’s launch of support for third-party app stores in the EU suggests a move towards compliance with regulations like the Digital Markets Act.
Apple’s rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE sheds light on the challenges developers face when trying to navigate the App Store’s review process. The inconsistencies, lack of clarity, and changing guidelines make it difficult for developers to understand and comply with Apple’s requirements. As the sole rule maker and enforcer in the iOS ecosystem, Apple’s decisions can seem arbitrary and unpredictable, leaving developers with little recourse when faced with rejections.
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