Folium is a game-changer for the iOS emulation scene. It’s one of the few high-performance multi-system emulators that actually takes advantage of the hardware power in modern iPhones and iPads. The interface is strikingly modern, moving away from the 'file browser' look of older emulators toward a more library-focused, aesthetic design. It feels like a native Apple app.
Performance-wise, it’s stellar. Whether you’re running 8-bit classics or more demanding 3D handheld titles, the frame rates are consistent and the audio latency is minimal. The ability to map controllers and customize the on-screen overlay is a huge plus. It’s a sophisticated tool that makes retro gaming on mobile feel premium. For anyone serious about emulation on iOS, Folium is the gold standard for performance and design.
Available on: iPhone, iPad
Version 1.36Fri Dec 19 2025
# Added
- multiplayer chat to Cytrus
- currently only available on iOS and iPadOS 26
- SEGA Genesis and Mega Drive support via the new Plum core
- significantly improved PlayStation 1 support via the new Mandarine core
- additional information to each core which can be viewed via the ⓘ button
- full iOS 16 support back in response to a plethora of user requests
# Changed
- to the latest Azahar core available on GitHub
- all emulation controllers bar Cytrus and Grape to the new redesign
- Library, Onboarding and What's New to use the same controller
# Fixed
- several iPad layout issues when emulating with Cytrus and Grape
- game controller support for all emulation controllers bar Cytrus and Grape
- this will require testing, PS5 game controller does work from my testing
- Plum does not support game controllers yet due to the weird 3/6 button layout
# Removed
- Lychee in favour of the new Mandarine core
- the Lychee folder will automatically be renamed to Mandarine upon initial launch
- Motion & Fitness onboarding step to hopefully fix macOS support
Folium is a beautifully designed, high performing multi-system emulator that allows you to play video games from retro consoles and handhelds
-- NOTE --
Folium does not provide any games or system files, these must be provided by the user
Emulation may be slow on older devices depending on the console or handheld emulated
-- NOTE --
Supported Consoles
- Game Boy, Game Boy Color
- Game Boy Advance
- Nintendo 3DS
- Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi
- Nintendo Entertainment System
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- PlayStation 1
Supported Controllers
- Backbone One
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Con
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- PlayStation DualShock 4
- PlayStation 5 DualSense
- Xbox Series S
- Xbox Series X
Folium is in no way affiliated with Nintendo. "Nintendo" and all associated game console and handheld names and game controller names are registered trademarks of Nintendo Co., Ltd
Folium is in no way affiliated with Sony. "PlayStation" and all associated game controller names are registered trademarks of Sony Group Corporation
Requires iOS 16.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.SEGA Genesis, Mega Drive are now supported, PlayStation 1 is better than ever, chat rooms arrive for Cytrus, improvements have been made for Cytrus and Grape and more!
Folium is a beautifully designed, high performing multi-system emulator that allows you to play video games from retro consoles and handhelds
-- NOTE --
Folium does not provide any games or system files, these must be provided by the user
Emulation may be slow on older devices depending on the console or handheld emulated
-- NOTE --
Supported Consoles
- Game Boy, Game Boy Color
- Game Boy Advance
- Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS
- Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi
- Nintendo Entertainment System
- SEGA Genesis, Mega Drive
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- PlayStation 1
Supported Controllers
- Backbone One
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Con
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- PlayStation DualShock 4
- PlayStation 5 DualSense
- Xbox Series S
- Xbox Series X
Folium is in no way affiliated with Nintendo. "Nintendo" and all associated game console and handheld names and game controller names are registered trademarks of Nintendo Co., Ltd
Folium is in no way affiliated with Sony. "PlayStation" and all associated game controller names are registered trademarks of Sony Group Corporation
Folium is in no way affiliated with SEGA. "SEGA" and all associated game console and handheld names are registered trademarks of SEGA Group Corporation






Folium is a versatile emulation frontend designed to bring your favorite classic game consoles to iOS. Built with a focus on performance and ease of use, it supports a wide range of systems, from retro 8-bit consoles to more modern handhelds. With features like save states, haptic feedback, and support for external controllers, Folium provides a seamless way to enjoy your retro library with modern enhancements.
Support for multiple console architectures
High-performance JIT-ready core
Modern, user-friendly UI
External Bluetooth controller support
Advanced save state management
Place your legally obtained ROM files into the Folium folder within the 'Files' app on your iPhone. Once you open Folium, tap the plus icon to refresh and import your games into the library.
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For more demanding 3D games, go into the settings and enable 'JIT' if supported by your OS version. This significantly boosts frame rates for more modern handheld emulation.
Yes, Folium is fully optimized for iPad, including support for Apple Pencil and external keyboards.