DolphiniOS’s Wii and GameCube Emulator Denied App Store Access Despite Apple’s Emulation Support
The anticipated arrival of DolphiniOS, a popular Nintendo Wii and GameCube emulator, to the Apple App Store has been met with disappointment. Despite Apple’s recent support for emulators, DolphiniOS has encountered a technical barrier that prevents its App Store release.
JIT Compiler Impasse
DolphiniOS, like other Wii and GameCube emulators, relies on a Just-in-Time (JIT) compiler to seamlessly translate the PowerPC-based code of the original consoles into a language compatible with other devices. This process significantly enhances emulation performance.
However, Apple’s App Store guidelines prohibit third-party apps from utilizing JIT compilers, with two notable exceptions: Safari and other web browsers in Europe. OatmealDome, the developer behind DolphiniOS, submitted a request to Apple under the Digital Markets Act for JIT support, which was ultimately denied.
Interpreter Alternative Falls Short
OatmealDome acknowledges that there is an alternative to JIT known as an “interpreter.” However, he emphasizes that it operates at a much slower speed, as evidenced by videos demonstrating the sluggish performance of Mario Kart Wii emulation on an iPhone 15 using an interpreter.
Apple has been approached for clarification on its policies regarding JIT, but no immediate response has been received.
App Store Emulation Hopes Diminished
Apple’s decision to deny DolphiniOS App Store access has cast a shadow over the prospects of other retro game emulators appearing on the platform. Earlier this month, Apple relaxed its policies on such emulators, leading to the surge of Delta to the top of the App Store charts.
However, the DolphiniOS setback serves as a reminder that emulators face potential obstacles related to technical limitations and Apple’s approval process.