Apple opens up its walled garden will allow retro gaming emulators on its App Store – Firstpost | Laptop News

Apple has recently made significant updates to its App Store rules, allowing developers to introduce emulators for retro console games globally, along with the option for users to download these titles. However, the company emphasized that developers must ensure compliance with copyright regulations.

While Android users already enjoy access to a plethora of emulators for playing classic games, Apple’s move is expected to incentivize developers to bring their emulators to the App Store.

Under the new rules, emulator apps must use an in-app purchase system for offering digital items. This adjustment comes as Apple adapts its App Store policies to meet regulatory requirements, potentially opening up new revenue streams for the tech giant.

Earlier this year, Apple announced updates to its App Store rules to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), allowing streaming game stores globally and facilitating in-app purchases for mini-games and AI chatbots.

Additionally, Apple expanded its guidelines to include plug-ins, which may include HTML5-based mini-apps — a move likely aimed at accommodating services offered by super apps like WeChat.

In a statement, Apple clarified that apps can now offer software such as HTML5 mini apps, mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, and plug-ins, while retro game console emulator apps can offer downloadable games.

The update comes amidst ongoing legal scrutiny, including a lawsuit by the US Department of Justice against Apple, which raised concerns about the company’s alleged monopolistic practices, including the…