Apple Blocks Emulator App For iPhones From App Store And Alternative Stores, Showing It Still Exerts Control Despite EU's Recent Efforts

Apple Inc. AAPL has rejected the submission of UTM, a generic PC system emulator, from the iOS App Store and third-party app stores, despite the European Union's recent efforts to loosen its control using the Digital Markets Act, or DMA.

What Happened: The UTM app, an open-source PC emulator for iPhone and iPad, was declined by Apple’s App Review. This decision is surprising given that Apple recently allowed retro game console emulators, like Delta or Folium.

The rejection was based on the App Review Guidelines, specifically Rule 4.7, which covers "mini apps, mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators."

The UTM developers claim that Apple refused to notarize the app due to a violation of this rule. However, the App Review Guidelines page does not list Rule 4.7 as part of the Notarization Review Guidelines.

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Despite the confusion, UTM has decided not to contest the ruling. The app will continue to be available for iOS through older ‘grey market’ sideloading methods for open-source software. UTM for Mac remains available in the Mac App Store.

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Why It Matters: This decision comes in the wake of Apple’s recent moves to support alternative app stores in the European Union. In February, the tech giant announced changes to its App Store Connect and TestFlight to support third-party app marketplaces.

In March, Apple allowed users in the EU to download apps from alternative stores, with a restriction on updating the apps while traveling for extended periods.

Despite these changes, Apple’s EU App Store sales have remained steady, with negligible revenue impact after complying with the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The rejection of UTM from third-party app stores in the EU adds another layer to Apple’s evolving relationship with the EU’s app market.

Earlier, Spotify Technology SA CEO Daniel Ek criticized Apple’s proposed “Alternative App Store” changes, calling them a “complete and total farce.” The recent rejection of UTM from third-party app stores in the EU adds to the ongoing debate over Apple’s app store policies in the region.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Photo by James Yarema on Unsplash