Best Xbox Cloud Gaming Controllers and Accessories in 2024

Apple Now Allows Retro Game Emulators On Its App Store—but With Big Caveats

Enlarge / The classic Sega Genesis game Sonic the Hedgehog running on an iPhone—in this case, as a standalone app. Samuel Axon reader comments 26

When Apple posted its latest update to the App Store's app review and submission policies for developers, it included language that appears to explicitly allow a new kind of app for emulating retro console games.

Apple has long forbidden apps that run code from an external source, but today's announced changes now allow "software that is not embedded in the binary" in certain cases, with "retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games" specifically listed as one of those cases.

Here's the exact wording:

4.7 Mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators

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. 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. You must also ensure that the software adheres to the additional rules that follow in 4.7.1 and 4.7.5. These additional rules are important to preserve the experience that App Store customers expect, and to help ensure user safety.

It's a little fuzzy how this will play out, but it may not allow the kind of emulators you see on Android and desktop, which let you play retro games from any outside source.

Retro game emulators run what are colloquially called ROM files, which are more or less images of the game cartridges or discs that played on console hardware. By now, it's well-established that the emulators themselves are completely legal, but the legality of the ROM files downloaded from ROM sites on the Internet depends on the specific files and circumstances.

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There are ROMs that are entirely public domain or in some license where the creator allows distribution; there are ROMs that are technically copyrighted intellectual property but where the original owner no longer exists, and the current ownership is unknown or unenforced; and there are some ROMs (like many games made by Nintendo) where the owner still has an interest in controlling distribution and often takes action to try to curb illegal sharing and use of the files.

Further Reading US sues Apple, alleging it illegally monopolized the smartphone market Additionally, many game publishers use emulators to run ROMs of their own retro games, which they sell to consumers either as standalone games or in collections for modern platforms.

It's not completely clear from Apple's wording, but our interpretation of Apple's new rules is that it's likely only the last of those examples will be possible; companies that own the intellectual property could launch emulator apps for downloading ROMs of their (and only their) games. So, for example, Sega could offer a Sega app that would allow users to download an ever-expanding library of Sega games, either as part of a subscription, for free, or as in-app purchases. Sega has offered its retro games on the iPhone before in emulation but with a standalone app for each game.

"You are responsible for all such software offered in your app, including ensuring that such software complies with these Guidelines and all applicable laws," Apple writes. And it specifically says "retro game console emulator apps can offer to download games" in the list of exceptions to the rules against "software that is not embedded inside the binary"—but it doesn't list any other method for retro game console emulator apps.

Whatever the case, this update is not limited to the European Union. Apple has been subjected to regulatory scrutiny in both the EU and the United States regarding its App Store rules. It's likely the company is making this change to preempt criticism in this area, though it did not name its reasons when announcing the change other than to say it has been made to "support updated policies, upcoming features, and to provide clarification."

Google Says Two Scammers Duped It Into Hosting 87 Fake Crypto Apps On The Play Store

C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

TL;DR

Google is suing two scammers it says have threatened the integrity of the Play Store.

The two fraudsters are accused of uploading a total of 87 fake crypto apps to the marketplace.

Over 100,000 people worldwide were affected by the scams.

The Google Play Store implements a variety of measures to protect users from harmful apps. Despite this, it appears two app developers were still able to get a large number of their fake apps on the marketplace. Now Google is suing the developers for ruining the integrity of the Play Store.

Business Insider reports that Google has filed a civil lawsuit in New York federal court against two app developers. The firm accuses the two of being crypto scammers who tricked it into hosting fraudulent apps in its app store.

The two scammers — one from Shenzhen, China, and the other from Hong Kong — are alleged to have created legitimate-looking cryptocurrency exchanges and investment apps. These two men are said to have then convinced victims through various promotions to invest money through the apps, but wouldn't allow the victims to withdraw their money, regardless if they made a profit or not.

In the filing, the tech giant says the scams affected over 100,000 people from around the world. These victims were reportedly conned out of anywhere from $100 to tens of thousands of dollars.

On its part, Google says it was able to identify the fraudulent apps and shut them down. However, when one would get shut down, another would end up taking its place. The lawsuit alleges that the scammers were able to trick Google into hosting new fake apps by misrepresenting their identity, location, and intent. In total, the pair were able to upload 87 fake crypto apps to the platform.

The company claims that it spent over $75,000 on investigating these scams. However, the firm appears to be more upset about Google Play's reputation than about the money it lost, as it reportedly mentions "integrity" dozens of times throughout the complaint.

Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.Com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice. Comments

Best Android Board Games App To Play [2024]

The Android mobile market has become a haven for board game enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of captivating board game apps that bring the excitement of traditional tabletop gaming to the palm of your hand. 

These apps offer endless entertainment and strategic challenges, from classic favorites to innovative new titles. Let's explore some of the top picks that might interest you. 

Understanding Android Board Game Apps

With advanced Android gaming phones, your childhood games are accessible. If you're a fan of board games, they perfectly mimic how they should be played in real life. (Photo: Nik Korba from Unsplash)

Android board game apps are virtual adaptations of traditional board games, seamlessly translating their gameplay mechanics and strategic depth.

Whether replicating established favorites or introducing original concepts, these apps provide an immersive gaming experience with added portability and online connectivity.

If your boredom strikes or you only want to pass the time, these board games are the perfect time killer for your sanity.

Related Article: Best Tower Defense Games for PC in 2024

Antihero: Master the Art of Deception

Step into the world of Antihero, a one-of-a-kind strategy game that puts you in control of a Victorian thief guild. Your objective? Dominate the city through cunning tactics, stealing, extorting, and eliminating rivals to expand your influence. 

With its impressive gameplay and stylish visuals, Antihero offers hours of strategic fun for just $4.99.

Tokaido: Start Your Tranquil Journey Here

March on a serene journey through ancient Japan in Tokaido, a visually stunning board game app that invites players to explore the scenic landscapes of the Tokaido road.

With its tranquil atmosphere and engaging mechanics, Tokaido delivers an enchanting, relaxing, rewarding gaming experience.

Catan Classic: Conquer New Territories

Experience the thrill of conquest in Catan Classic, a faithful adaptation of the beloved strategy game. Build settlements, trade resources, and outmaneuver your opponents as you strive for victory on the ever-changing game board. 

With its intuitive interface and immersive gameplay, Catan Classic offers endless hours of strategic fun for players of all skill levels.

Ticket to Ride: Claim Your Routes

Become a master of transportation in Ticket to Ride, a board game app that challenges players to claim railway routes across the globe. With its exciting gameplay and multiple game modes, Ticket to Ride offers a dynamic gaming experience that is too hard to resist.

Monopoly: Rule the Board

Enter the world of Monopoly, the classic board game of property trading and ruthless capitalism. Compete against friends or AI opponents as you buy, sell, and scheme your way to victory.

With its timeless gameplay and modern features, Monopoly delivers all the excitement of the original game with added convenience and accessibility.

It's hard to exclude this from the list not only because of nostalgia but also because you grew up playing Monopoly with your best buddies.

With an abundance of engaging board game apps available on the Play Store, Android users can enjoy the thrill of tabletop gaming anytime, anywhere. 

It does not matter whether you're a seasoned strategist or a casual gamer. What matters is how you enjoy playing these board game apps on Android alone or with the company.

Read Also: Xbox Game Pass Will Say Goodbye to 6 Horror Games on April 15

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