Apple recently made the decision to reject the submissions of iDOS 3 and UTM SE, which are retro video game emulators, on the App Store. This decision comes despite the fact that retro game emulators are allowed under guideline 4.7 of the App Review Guidelines. According to Apple, the reason for the rejection is that the apps do not specifically emulate retro game consoles. This strict interpretation of the guidelines has left developers confused and frustrated.
Chaoji Li, the developer of iDOS 3, expressed his frustration with Apple’s decision in a blog post. He shared that when he asked Apple for guidance on how to make the app compliant, he received vague and unhelpful responses. Apple’s lack of clarity on what constitutes a retro game console has added to the confusion. Additionally, UTM, another developer whose app was rejected, called out Apple for its inconsistency in enforcing the guidelines.
Apple’s guidelines around retro game emulators are not entirely clear, leading to uncertainty among developers. While guideline 4.7 allows for retro game emulators, there are additional rules, such as guideline 2.5.2, that restrict the execution of certain code within apps. This inconsistency in the guidelines has made it difficult for developers to navigate the App Store approval process.
The rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE highlights the power dynamics at play in the iOS ecosystem. Developers are at the mercy of Apple’s decisions, with little recourse if their apps are rejected. This lack of consistency and transparency in Apple’s review process has left developers feeling disempowered and frustrated.
Apple’s decision to reject these retro game emulators raises questions about the company’s commitment to fostering a diverse and innovative app ecosystem. By limiting the types of apps that can be offered on the App Store, Apple may be stifling creativity and innovation. As the company faces increased antitrust scrutiny, its handling of app rejections could come under further scrutiny.
The rejection of iDOS 3 and UTM SE by Apple underscores the challenges that developers face in navigating the App Store approval process. The lack of clarity and consistency in Apple’s guidelines has left developers feeling frustrated and disempowered. Moving forward, it will be important for Apple to provide more transparency and guidance to developers to ensure a fair and equitable app ecosystem.
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