For the first time ever, Apple has allowed a PC emulator on the App Store.
- The newly approved app is UTM SE, which can run retro PC software and games.
- The emulator is available for free on iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS.
- Previously, Apple had rejected UTM SE for guideline violations, but changes led to approval.
- The emulator’s release marks a significant shift in Apple’s policy regarding app submissions.
Apple has made a historic decision by permitting a PC emulator, UTM SE, on the App Store for the first time. This marks a significant departure from the company’s previous stance on emulation software. The app, which enables users to run old PC software and play retro games, is now accessible for free on iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS devices.
According to a report by The Verge, UTM SE is the first PC emulator to receive approval for distribution on Apple’s marketplace. The app was officially launched in a social media post by UTM on X (formerly Twitter). “We are happy to announce that UTM SE is available (for free) on iOS and visionOS App Store (and coming soon to AltStore PAL)! Shoutouts to AltStore team for their help and to Apple for reconsidering their policy,” the announcement read.
To use UTM SE effectively, users need to download a pre-built virtual machine from UTM’s website or create their own. This allows them to run classic games like Doom and 3D Pinball for Windows — Space Cadet. Initially, Apple had rejected UTM SE in June due to guideline violations, but after creating a “JIT-less build,” the app finally met Apple’s requirements and secured approval.
Furthermore, UTM SE is set to be available on AltStore PAL soon, extending its reach to users in the European Union. This broader distribution highlights the emulator’s growing accessibility and the potential shift in how Apple handles emulation apps on its platform.
This approval represents a notable change in Apple’s approach to emulation software, opening new possibilities for app developers and users alike.
Source: Androidauthority – Twitter
