The phrase refers to software designed to mimic the functionality of Sony’s PlayStation Vita handheld gaming console on devices running Apple’s iOS operating system. Such programs aim to allow users to play Vita games on iPhones and iPads. This entails translating the Vita’s system architecture and game code into a format compatible with the target iOS device.
The appeal of such an application lies in its potential to expand access to Vita’s game library, offering a convenient alternative to owning a physical Vita console. It could provide players with enhanced portability and, in some cases, improved graphical performance or control schemes depending on the emulator’s design and the capabilities of the iOS device. Historically, the pursuit of console emulation on mobile platforms has been driven by a desire to preserve gaming history and unlock new gaming experiences.