Club Benefits
You are now subscribed
Your newsletter sign-up was successful
Want to add more newsletters?
Daily (Mon-Sun)
Tom's Guide Daily
Sign up to get the latest updates on all of your favorite content! From cutting-edge tech news and the hottest streaming buzz to unbeatable deals on the best products and in-depth reviews, we’ve got you covered.
Weekly on Thursday
Tom's AI Guide
Be AI savvy with your weekly newsletter summing up all the biggest AI news you need to know. Plus, analysis from our AI editor and tips on how to use the latest AI tools!
Weekly on Friday
Tom's iGuide
Unlock the vast world of Apple news straight to your inbox. With coverage on everything from exciting product launches to essential software updates, this is your go-to source for the latest updates on all the best Apple content.
Weekly on Monday
Tom's Streaming Guide
Our weekly newsletter is expertly crafted to immerse you in the world of streaming. Stay updated on the latest releases and our top recommendations across your favorite streaming platforms.
Join the club
Get full access to premium articles, exclusive features and a growing list of member rewards.
Apple recently rejected the PC emulator UTM SE, citing that PCs are distinct from consoles when it comes to gaming. But that has led to a bit of internet discussion over what hardware actually counts when it comes to game emulation.
UTM recently posted a statement on its X account, reading “After almost two-month long review princess, Apple has rejected UTM SE from the iOS App Store as we all as from notarization for third party app stores.”
The statement adds: “Their reasoning is that rule 4.7 which Apple recently introduced that allows for Delta, PPSSPP, and other emulators to be allowed does NOT apply to UTM SE.”
pic.twitter.com/SNux03qjJhJune 9, 2024
This is due to the Apple Store Review Board determining that a PC is not a console, “regardless of the fact that there are retro Windows/DOS games for the PC that UTM SE can be useful in running." Additionally, Apple’s stance is that UTM SE is not allowed on third-party marketplaces either because rule 4.7 also applies to Notarization Review guidelines.
Apple only recently changed its rules to allow emulators on to the iOS App Store, something Android has allowed for a while. The first app was Delta, an emulator that allowed users to play some of their favorite retro Gameboy games.
In this instance, we don't have all the information; Apple's decision to block UTM might be down to more than just their terms and conditions. After all, UTM is software that essentially allows users to run Windows and Android on an iPhone. In the past, the team behind the app has claimed it would focus on jailbroken iPhones and has even recommended users not to update their devices. With this in mind, it's hardly surprising that Apple rejected it.
Ultimately, it's Apple’s choice what's allowed onto the App Store — despite what the EU may desire. Retro gamers often turn to emulators to enjoy older games but it's a legal gray area. Emulation should only be used on titles a player already legally owns. If you don't want to dabble in emulation, then many retro games are seeing releases on both Steam and Xbox Game Pass. Equip yourself with one of the best gaming PCs and you'll be set to enjoy these classics.
More from Tom's Guide
- Apple could be introducing new visual and security features with iOS 18 — here’s what we know
- These hidden AirDrop settings make photo sharing so much better
- You can now play Nintendo 3DS games on your iPhone — here's how
