AltStore Brings Nintendo Emulators To iPhone And iPad Through Alternative App Store

Following the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which compels Apple to allow alternative app stores on iOS devices, platforms like AltStore have begun to expand their presence. Originally launched in 2019, AltStore previously required a jailbreak to install apps outside the App Store. Now, thanks to the EU’s regulatory changes, AltStore can be installed and used freely by iPhone and iPad users within the region.

This week, AltStore officially launched AltStore Classic, a modern re-release of the original version. The launch coincides with the one-year anniversary of AltStore PAL, the EU-specific variant. AltStore Classic distinguishes itself by allowing the installation of non-App Store apps, including those that require Just-in-Time (JIT) compilation, a feature generally restricted on iOS.

In conjunction with this release, the development team introduced StikDebug, a tool designed to enable JIT compilation for any app installed via AltStore Classic. This feature is particularly important for enabling game emulation, which relies heavily on JIT for performance.

To demonstrate the potential of these tools, AltStore developers showcased the functionality on Threads, highlighting the use of the Dolphin emulator, known for supporting Nintendo Wii and GameCube games. Additionally, a video demonstration of the meloNX emulator, which emulates Nintendo Switch games, was shared. In the video, Mario Kart gameplay is shown running fluidly on an iPhone, complete with responsive on-screen controls, indicating a high level of performance and stability.

These advancements are especially significant for users in the European Union, where alternative app stores are now officially supported. They provide users with far more flexibility and access to apps that Apple traditionally restricts. In other regions, such as Brazil, legal efforts are ongoing to push for similar regulatory changes. Lawsuits demanding the unlocking of the iOS ecosystem are currently in progress, and similar changes may soon reach those markets.

AltStore Classic and StikDebug represent a substantial shift in what is possible on iOS, enabling experiences like advanced gaming emulation without compromising device security. With the backing of EU legislation and a growing user base, AltStore is positioning itself as a leading solution for those seeking more open and customizable iOS experiences.

Filed in Cellphones >Gaming >Tablets..