Apple allowed users to sideload apps and install third-party app stores on the iPhone with its big iOS 17.4 update, but it appears that the company did not do enough. The EU has imposed a hefty fine over the non-satisfactory changes that Apple implemented on the App Store and has requested to further comply with the Digital Markets Act. With a $2 billion fine, Apple was required to update the App Store again with the required changes. The updated App Store guidelines offer the ability for streaming apps to be redirected to an external website along with developers to offer game emulators on the App Store.
Developers will finally be able to offer game emulators on the App Store, but a lot still remains unclear
iOS 17.4 was a major update, specifically for users residing in countries that fall under the EU, as it allows developers to offer their apps from outside the app store. However, the company has now confirmed the arrival of new “Music Streaming Services Entitlements” for apps available in the EU with its new App Review Guidelines, and you can check it out for yourself on Apple’s Developer website.
If you are not familiar, music streaming apps will include a dedicated “Buy” button, which will take users to an external website or an invitation for users to add their email in order to receive a link that allows them to buy music through the developer’s website. Other than this, Apple now allows game emulators on the App Store – a change that is not exclusively available in the EU region. This means users across the globe will be able to download game emulators through the App Store.
Apple shared the news in an email to developers, suggesting the game emulators will be available on the App Store, which is major news for game developers as they have been seeking ways to offer emulation on Apple products. Developers have been silently hiding the game emulators as apps for years, and it appears they will finally be able to offer their services legally and officially.
However, Apple also mentions the risks associated with the game emulators in the App Store, stating that developers will be “responsible for all such software offered in your app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws.” However, various aspects of the entire deal are still unknown. Would Apple allow game emulators from third-party developers, or would the companies that own the rights to distribute games be allowed to offer game emulators on the App Store?
Note that this is only the beginning of Apple’s compliance with the Digital Markets Act, as the company could be further fined for its non-satisfactory practices imposed by the EU. We will share more details on the latest changes as soon as further information is available.
