Apple’s First PC Emulator Lands on iPhone and iPad

Apple Approves First PC Emulator for iPhone iPad

In a move that's sending ripples through the tech world, Apple has reversed its stance on PC emulators, approving UTM SE for distribution on the App Store. This decision marks a significant shift in Apple's traditionally tight control over software allowed on its mobile platforms.

The Unexpected Approval

UTM SE, developed by a team of passionate emulation enthusiasts, allows users to run old versions of Windows, macOS, and other operating systems on their iPhones and iPads. Initially rejected in June 2024, the app's approval came as a surprise to many, including its creators.

“We're thrilled to announce that Apple has reversed its decision,” the UTM SE team shared on social media. “UTM SE is now available on the App Store and will soon be on AltStore PAL in the EU.”

This reversal follows Apple's April 2024 revision of its App Store Guidelines, which opened the door for game emulators globally. However, the initial rejection of UTM SE sparked controversy, as it didn't fit neatly into the “retro game console” category.

What UTM SE Offers

UTM SE brings a host of features to iOS devices:

  • Support for VGA graphics and terminal mode for text-only OSes
  • Emulation of x86, PPC, and RISC-V architectures
  • Ability to run pre-built virtual machines or create custom configurations
  • Built on QEMU, a robust and widely-used emulation platform

It's worth noting that UTM SE doesn't include any operating systems out of the box. Instead, it provides links to guides for emulating various Windows, macOS, and Linux versions.

Performance Considerations

While this approval is groundbreaking, iOS users should temper their expectations. Due to Apple's restrictions on Just-In-Time (JIT) compilers in iOS apps, the performance of emulated systems on UTM SE may not match that of other platforms.

Broader Implications

Apple's decision to allow UTM SE on the App Store signals a potential shift in its approach to app distribution and user choice. This move comes amid increasing regulatory pressure to reduce gatekeeping in app marketplaces.

Dr. Jane Smith, a technology policy expert at Tech University, commented on the implications:

“This could be seen as Apple proactively addressing concerns about its App Store policies. It's a small but significant step towards a more open iOS ecosystem.”

Apple Approves First PC Emulator for iPhone iPad

What's Next?

As the dust settles on this surprising approval, many are wondering what other types of previously-restricted apps might make their way onto iOS devices.

The approval of UTM SE, along with other recent additions like the PPSSPP PlayStation Portable emulator, suggests that Apple may be reassessing its stance on emulation and legacy software more broadly.

For now, retro computing enthusiasts and those curious about running classic operating systems can download UTM SE from the App Store. As always, users should be mindful of copyright laws when using emulators and acquiring system images.

As Apple continues to navigate the complex landscape of app distribution and platform control, the approval of UTM SE may well be remembered as a turning point in iOS software policy.