For years, Apple has prevented developers from distributing iOS emulators on the App Store. However, as the company faces pressure from the European Union through the Digital Markets Act (DMA) antitrust law, iPhone and iPad emulators are now allowed. Thanks to this, iDOS 3 is now available on the App Store.

iDOS finally gets approval from Apple

iDOS is a popular DOS emulator for Apple devices. In the past, developer Chaoji Li tried to release it on the App Store, but the app was eventually removed by Apple.

In April, Apple updated the App Store policies to allow retro game emulators (like Delta) for the first time. Despite this, the company continued to ban PC emulators from the App Store – which was seen by many developers as “inconsistent” and “illegal”, especially in light of the DMA legislation.

After hearing the complaints (and perhaps wanting to avoid further investigations by the EU), Apple again revised the App Store guidelines, this time allowing PC emulators as well. UTM SE, a popular PC emulator for iOS, was probably the first of its kind to be approved by Apple. Now iDOS 3 has also received Apple approval.

Apps may offer certain software not embedded in the binary, including but not limited to HTML5 mini-apps and mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, and plug-ins. In addition, retro game console and PC emulator apps may offer game downloads. You are responsible for all software offered in your app and must ensure that such software complies with these guidelines and all applicable laws.

Undeniably, the antitrust investigations have prompted Apple to relax the App Store’s strict rules, ultimately benefiting users around the world. But even though iDOS 3 is now available on the App Store, Li still fears that Apple will find another reason to ban the app.

“It took a long time for common sense to prevail at Apple. As much as I want to celebrate, I still can’t help but look to the future. Is everything OK from now on?” said the developer (via The edge).

The iDOS 3 app is available for iPhone and iPad on the App Store and costs just $0.99. It requires a device running iOS 12 or later.

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