A PDF file is not a computer program, it does not execute on the CPU but contains instructions for an interpreter to process to generate the page. That is different to executables (which run directly on a CPU). Most data files are little more than scripts, that are interpreted by a host program.

But you're not right on how programs load data files data is not always a program. But then I think it's too broad to ban all executable code since it covers emulation too. That executed code could be further sandboxed to prevent viruses or malware. Share files and folders, copy and paste images and text and drag and drop files and content between Mac and Windows applications. I understand why Apple rejects executable code - it could allow app stores within an app for example unless prevented by further guidelines (not saying that's necessarily a bad thing, but thats's likely their angle). Seamless Use Windows side-by-side with macOS (no restarting required) on your MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac mini or Mac Pro. Isn't programs as data and data as programs the basic principle of computing? For example, PDF files are themselves computer programs which instruct and iPad how to render a PDF visually. In reality, executing code in an emulator is what programs do. I think Apple's guideline rejecting executing code is needs to be eliminated - an emulator is an emulator.

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