• Source:JND
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Apple has been making a series of changes to its rulebooks to comply with the recent EU regulations. In a recent move, the company allowed retro game console emulator apps on the App Store. Guideline 4.7 allows HTML5 mini apps and mini games, emulators, plug-ins, chatbots and streaming games as permitted software.

While emulators have managed to mark their presence on the App Store via a hidden functionality, the company did not permit them explicitly earlier. The change affects the worldwide audience and could help apps that offer mini apps and mini games, MacRumors reported.

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"Apps may offer certain software that is not embedded in the binary, specifically HTML5 mini apps and mini games, streaming games, chatbots, and plug-ins. Additionally, retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games," the Review Guidelines said.

"You are responsible for all such software offered in your app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws. Software that does not comply with one or more guidelines will lead to the rejection of your app." As game emulators can offer downloadable games, it could allow console emulators that allow users to play old classics on Android to mark attendance on iPhones.

However, Apple said that developers must ensure they do not infringe any copyright laws during the process. Emulators should use the in-app payment method for digital items. Moreover, the company also updated the guidelines to allow music streaming apps to allow alternative purchasing options in compliance with the EU's anti-steering mandate.

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Apps such as Spotify can include a third-party link to visit the vendor's website and offer alternative purchases in the European Economic Area. "Music streaming apps in specific regions can use Music Streaming Services Entitlements to include a link (which may take the form of a buy button) to the developer's website that informs users of other ways to purchase digital music content or services." Developers can also use the email IDs of users to service buying links.