Apple blocks PC emulator UTM from app stores

Apple has rejected an software for the PC emulator UTM to be hosted on the Apple App Retailer. It has additionally blocked the app from showing on third-party app shops.

In a post on X, UTM stated that the explanation Apple gave was that rule 4.7, which regulates “mini apps, mini-games, streaming video games, chatbots, plug-ins, and recreation emulators,” and has allowed different emulators to be added to the app retailer, doesn’t apply to UTM as a result of it isn’t a console.

The total assertion says “After nearly two-month lengthy evaluate course of, Apple has rejected UTM SE from the iOS App Retailer in addition to from notarization for third-party app shops. Their reasoning is that rule 4.7 which Apple just lately launched that permits for Delta, PPSSPP, and different emulators to be allowed does NOT apply to UTM SE. The App Retailer Evaluate Board decided that “PC will not be a console” no matter the truth that there are retro Home windows/DOS video games for the PC that UTM SE could be helpful in working. Moreover, Apple’s stance is that UTM SE will not be allowed on third-party marketplaces both as a result of rule 4.7 additionally applies to Notarization Evaluate Pointers.

“We’ll adhere by Apple’s content material and coverage resolution as a result of we consider UTM SE (which doesn’t have JIT) is a subpar expertise and isn’t price preventing for (see https://oatmealdome.me/weblog/why-dolphin-isnt-coming-to-the-app-store/) We don’t want to make investments any extra time or effort attempting to get UTM SE within the App Retailer or third get together shops until Apple modifications their stance.”

Apple was compelled into allowing emulators onto the App Store after the introduction of new European Union regulations in April 2024. Apple was fast to state that builders of emulators are “liable for all such software program supplied in your app, together with guaranteeing that such software program complies with these Pointers and all relevant legal guidelines.”