The prospect of playing classic Wii and GameCube games on an iPhone or iPad is enticing for many Apple users. However, despite recent changes to Apple’s App Store guidelines allowing retro game emulators, DolphiniOS, a popular emulator for these Nintendo consoles, won’t be making its way onto the App Store. Here’s why.
Apple’s Restrictions on JIT
The primary reason DolphiniOS isn’t available on the App Store boils down to Apple’s restrictions on Just-in-Time (JIT) compilation technology. JIT is crucial for emulating the PowerPC-based CPU of the GameCube and Wii consoles effectively on ARM-based iOS devices. This technology dynamically translates the game code from the console’s format to one that the iPhone can execute, allowing for efficient emulation.
Apple generally prohibits third-party apps from using JIT due to security concerns, with exceptions only for Safari and some approved web browsers in Europe. Without JIT, DolphiniOS would have to rely on a much slower interpretation method, resulting in poor performance that doesn’t meet user expectations or the standard Apple aims for in its app ecosystem.
Installation Alternatives
Despite its absence from the App Store, DolphiniOS is still accessible to users willing to bypass traditional installation methods. Users can install DolphiniOS on non-jailbroken devices using a workaround involving AltStore, a third-party app store that allows the sideloading of iOS applications. This method involves some technical steps, like installing AltStore via a PC and using an Apple ID for app signing.
Emulator Performance and Development
DolphiniOS, while a separate project from the Dolphin emulator that runs on PC and Android, aims to bring similar high-quality emulation to iOS devices. It showcases impressive performance capabilities, particularly on newer hardware like the iPad Pro, managing to emulate games with stable frame rates and high fidelity audio and video. However, the full potential of DolphiniOS is heavily reliant on JIT, which remains out of reach within the App Store’s current guidelines.
For now, Apple’s stringent policies regarding JIT compilation are the main barrier keeping DolphiniOS off the App Store. While there are alternative methods to enjoy this emulator, they require additional steps and technical knowledge, which may not appeal to all users. The situation could change if Apple adjusts its stance on JIT in the future, but for now, enthusiasts need to look towards sideloading as the primary method of experiencing DolphiniOS on their devices.
