Apple is undergoing a number of changes when it comes to its developer guidelines. Many of these are now opening up new avenues for devs to go down when creating apps for users on iOS. One major change has been the recent music streaming guidelines which allow music apps to link to external websites. Another is a change to “retro emulators” which seemingly allow devs to publish console emulators on the App Store.
Of course, Apple isn’t opening up the App Store to emulators and allowing piracy to run afoot. Apple plans on monitoring these apps for piracy while at the same time, developers will be responsivle for all software provided in these apps.
The email sent to developers states that all software contained in these emulator apps will need to comply with the Terms of Use as well as applicable laws. It isn’t clear yet what this means. I would understand that emulators might only be released by the companies who own the intellectual properties to the said games. Developers simply can’t launch an app, add games and sell it.
However, if Nintendo or Sony would want to launch say a “Game Boy” or “PSP” emulator, this is totally possible now. Keep in mind that the iPhone lineup has already had a number of game emulators available through jailbreaks and other software modifications. These emulators include PSP, PS One, DS, Game Boy and other “retro” platforms. So we already know it is possible.
“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. You are responsible for all such software offered in your app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws. Software that does not comply with one or more guidelines will lead to the rejection of your app. You must also ensure that the software adheres to the additional rules that follow in 4.7.1 and 4.7.5. These additional rules are important to preserve the experience that App Store customers expect, and to help ensure user safety.”
It will take some time before we see the fruits of these changes. We also don’t know what to expect when it comes to the aps available in this category. But it is still a step in the right direction for game preservation.
Source: Apple Website
