Adobe Targets Indie Game Emulator Delta Over Similar Logos
The popular retro game emulator Delta, which has been in development for nearly a decade, surged to the top of the App Store charts after Apple relaxed its guidelines to allow game emulators. But this success attracted unwanted attention from Adobe, who threatened legal action over Delta’s logo, which they claimed was too similar to their own trademark.
Riley Testut, the creator of Delta, has a history of developing emulation software, having previously worked on GBA4iOS—an app that emulated games on iOS devices without the need for jailbreaking. After Apple tightened its policies, shutting GBA4iOS down, change was on the horizon. With regulators applying pressure for greater market openness, Apple adopted a more lenient stance on emulators, paving the way for apps like Delta to thrive.
Upon its release, Delta quickly dominated the App Store, becoming the number one app and amassing millions of downloads. Its success continued, maintaining a high ranking in the charts, alongside other emulators like PPSSPP.
However, Delta’s high profile brought Adobe’s attention to its logo—a purple and white broken triangle resembling the Greek letter delta—leading Adobe to claim that it infringed on its own logo design. In response, Delta introduced a new logo, created with input from designer Caroline Moore, in order to mitigate the threat of legal action from Adobe.
The controversy over the logos primarily focused on the similarity of the triangular shapes used in both designs. Adobe sports a thicker, red and white “A” that covers the entire icon, while Delta’s mark was smaller and more subdued. Despite operating in completely different industries—Adobe’s suite for creative professionals and Delta’s role as a gaming platform—it’s evident that Adobe perceived a potential trademark conflict.
Delta confirmed receiving a legal notice from Adobe on May 7, demanding changes to its logo. A follow-up notification from Apple indicated Adobe’s request to remove Delta from the App Store for trademark infringement as well. While Delta explained the meaning behind its logo and expressed willingness to modify it, the situation highlighted the challenges smaller developers can face when they attract widespread attention.
In a proactive decision to avoid legal complications, Delta debuted a new icon. Unfortunately, feedback from the community suggested that the revised design lacked the original’s simplicity and appealing aesthetic. Some users suggested alternative designs, like utilizing the lowercase Greek delta or commissioning custom artwork.
Testut indicated that the recent logo change is only temporary, with plans to update it with another new design from Caroline Moore in the upcoming Delta 1.6 release. He expressed that the interim impact on branding is not a major concern.
This case underscores the importance of trademark considerations for growing apps, and how successful branding can sometimes lead to unexpected legal challenges. It also highlights the ever-evolving interplay between app developers, large corporations, and the guidelines governing app marketplaces.
