- Apple has approved the UTM SE app, a PC emulator for iOS.
- The emulator can run Windows from XP onwards, as well as selected Linux and macOS versions.
- The app is available on iPhones, iPads, and Apple Vision Pro headsets.
Apple has made a significant move by approving the first official PC emulator for iOS, known as UTM SE. This decision comes after the app was previously rejected by the tech giant.
UTM SE now allows users to run various versions of Windows, starting from Windows XP, as well as selected Linux and macOS versions on their iPhones, iPads, and Apple Vision Pro headsets.
The UTM SE App
The approval of UTM SE marks a notable shift in Apple’s approach towards emulators. In April, Apple relaxed its rules about emulator apps, leading to the emergence of several retro console emulators on iOS.
However, the inclusion of a Windows PC emulator like UTM SE was unexpected, especially after its rejection in June.
The initial rejection was based on the reasoning that PCs did not fit the “retro game console” description required for approval.
Changing Policies or Upgraded App?
It remains unclear what exactly has changed to allow UTM SE’s approval. It could be a shift in Apple’s policies or enhancements made to the app itself.
The UTM SE team has hinted on social media that Apple may have reconsidered their stance, coupled with upgrades to the emulator experience.
This approval could indicate a broader change in how Apple views and manages emulator applications on its platform.
Legal Gray Areas
As with other emulators, UTM SE does not come with operating systems included. Users must independently source the software they wish to run on the emulator.
This approach is common because it absolves both the emulator developers and Apple from legal responsibility regarding the use of pirated software.
While running emulators is legal, the legality of using pirated old software remains a gray area.
Regulatory Pressures and User Choice
Apple’s decision to approve UTM SE can be seen in the context of increasing regulatory pressures. Regulators have been pushing for more freedom and fewer restrictions on user choice.
This pressure has led Apple to reduce its gatekeeping measures, allowing more flexibility in app approvals. This regulatory influence is also evident in the EU, where third-party app stores are now permitted on iPhones.
Availability and Installation
UTM SE is available for free on the App Store, with no in-app purchases required. Additionally, the app can be accessed through the AltStore, providing users with more installation options. This availability across different platforms enhances user accessibility and choice.
Apple’s approval of the UTM SE app is a significant development for iOS users. It reflects a possible shift in Apple’s policies and a response to regulatory pressures advocating for more user choice.
As more users explore the capabilities of this PC emulator for iOS, it could pave the way for further innovations and approvals in the emulator app category.