Apple has surprised the tech world with a major policy shift, officially allowing PC emulators onto the App Store for iOS, iPadOS, and VisionOS devices. This decision marks a significant change for the company, known for its tightly controlled app ecosystem.
The news comes after UTM SE, a free PC emulator app, was initially rejected by Apple. However, with the help of the AltStore team and other developers, UTM SE has finally secured approval. UTM SE itself doesn’t come pre-loaded with virtual machines, but acts as a guide, allowing users to explore and install them.
This newfound freedom to run classic PC software and games on iPhones and iPads is a dream come true for many users. Imagine the possibilities – blasting through nostalgic titles like Doom or 3D Pinball Space Cadet, delving into the world of Linux applications, or even utilizing productivity software originally designed for PCs – all accessible on your mobile device.
The arrival of PC emulators represents a potential turning point for Apple’s app policy. While it’s unclear whether this openness will extend to other types of emulators or apps, it sends a positive message about user choice and flexibility. This shift could potentially breathe new life into Apple’s mobile devices, catering to a wider range of user needs and preferences.
However, questions remain. How will Apple navigate the balance between user freedom and maintaining a curated app experience? Will this decision pave the way for further policy changes within the Apple ecosystem? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world of iOS, iPadOS, and VisionOS just got a whole lot more versatile.
