- Apple postpones rollout of iPhone AI features to European users until 2025.
- Decision affects iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 devices.
- Delay attributed to complexities under EU’s Digital Markets Act.
- Features like iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing also impacted.
- Regulatory uncertainties could lead to prolonged compliance challenges.
Main AI News:
Apple’s upcoming iPhone AI capabilities set for release this autumn won’t be available to European users. This decision affects millions of iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 owners, as the company grapples with challenges stemming from the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
As reported by the Financial Times, Apple attributes the delay to uncertainties arising from Brussels’ new competition rules. The Apple Intelligence update, unveiled as a highlight at this year’s World Wide Developers Conference on June 10, promised a suite of groundbreaking features.
While the DMA applies exclusively to EU member states, its ripple effects are felt globally, prompting close observation from countries such as the U.S. and U.K. Faced with this regulatory landscape, Apple finds itself in uncharted waters, necessitating adjustments to iOS software and App Store services to ensure compliance with interoperability requirements.
In a statement issued on June 22, Apple acknowledged the challenges: “Due to regulatory uncertainties brought by the Digital Markets Act, we regret to announce the postponement of three key features—iPhone Mirroring, SharePlay Screen Sharing enhancements, and Apple Intelligence—for our EU users this year.”
While features like iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing remain compelling, the core AI advancements offered by Apple Intelligence are notably absent from this update.
This development comes amidst reports of imminent regulatory action against Apple by EU authorities, highlighting an ongoing struggle over DMA compliance. For iPhone users in Europe, this delay translates into a prolonged wait for crucial iOS 18 improvements.
Conclusion:
This delay in deploying advanced iPhone AI features in Europe underscores Apple’s struggle to navigate stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly the Digital Markets Act. As the company adjusts its strategies to comply with EU mandates, the market can expect continued scrutiny over tech giants’ ability to integrate innovations while adhering to regulatory standards. This move not only impacts Apple’s product roadmap but also sets a precedent for how global tech firms adapt to evolving regulatory landscapes, shaping future market dynamics.
