Apple Approves iDOS 3 Emulator After Rule Change

Apple's Changing Stance on PC Emulators: The Case of iDOS 3

In a significant move for retro gaming enthusiasts, Apple's App Store has finally welcomed the DOS emulator iDOS 3, following a series of regulatory changes that now allow for PC emulator applications. This update comes directly from developer Chaoji Li, who has been navigating the tumultuous waters of App Store guidelines.

What Prompted the Change?

Back in June, iDOS 3 faced rejection from Apple due to violations of App Store guideline 4.7. Historically, this guideline restricted the approval of app emulators to retro game consoles only, leaving PC emulators like iDOS 3 and UTM SE out in the cold.

Apple's Reversal on UTM SE

The tide began to turn in July when Apple reversed its decision on UTM SE, granting it access to the App Store. With this, it became evident that there was a shift in policy brewing within Apple, hinting at a possible opening for more diverse emulator applications.

Updated Guidelines and New Possibilities

Earlier this month, Apple made a notable revision to guideline 4.7, adding the phrase 'PC emulator' to the stipulations. This pivotal change laid the groundwork for iDOS 3's eventual approval, allowing more developers to create and share PC emulators unhindered.

Developer's Cautious Optimism

Despite this breakthrough, Chaoji Li expressed a sense of caution. In a recent blog post, Li reflected on the long wait for common sense to prevail within Apple's regulatory frameworks. "As much as I want to celebrate, I still can’t help being a little bit cautious about the future. Are we good from now on?" He raised valid concerns given the history of the App Store, including Apple's controversial decision to remove iDOS 2 in 2021.

Getting iDOS 3

For those eager to revisit their DOS gaming classics, iDOS 3 is now available for download on the App Store for a modest fee of $0.99. If you're yearning to run Windows XP on your iPad, as demonstrated by our colleague Wes Davis using UTM SE, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss!

Conclusion

The approval of iDOS 3 signifies a hopeful change in how Apple approaches PC emulators, reflecting the evolving landscape of gaming technology. It offers both developers and gamers new opportunities, although lingering apprehensions remain about the long-term viability of such applications in the future.