Friday, 4 April 2025
26.2 C
Singapore
27.2 C
Thailand
20.1 C
Indonesia
26.9 C
Philippines

Apple to delay new AI features in Europe due to regulations

Apple delays AI features in Europe due to Digital Markets Act regulations, citing concerns over user privacy and data security.

Apple has announced a delay in releasing its latest AI features for iOS 18 in the European Union, attributing the hold-up to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations. The company stated that the marquee features of Apple Intelligence, iPhone Mirroring on Mac, and SharePlay Screen Sharing would not launch in the EU this year. Bloomberg reported this information on Friday.

Concerns over user privacy and data security

In a statement to Bloomberg, Apple expressed concerns about the DMA’s interoperability requirements, which they claim could compromise the integrity of their products. “We are concerned that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could force us to compromise the integrity of our products in ways that risk user privacy and data security,” Apple said. However, the company did not provide further details on how the DMA could specifically affect user privacy and security.

The DMA, which was passed in 2022, aims to promote fair competition by preventing large tech companies from using their market power to stifle competitors. It restricts these companies from prioritising their services over others, locking customer data within their platforms, and limiting transparency about their advertising data usage.

Apple’s history with EU regulations

This is not the first instance in which Apple has cited regulations as a reason for withholding features from EU users. Earlier this year, the company announced that it would remove the ability to add home screen web apps in Europe, again blaming DMA rules. Apple later reversed this decision following โ€œrequestsโ€ it received. Similarly, Google removed third-party apps and watch faces from European devices, attributing the move to “new regulatory requirements.”

Apple’s decision to delay these features comes amid increasing regulatory scrutiny in the EU. In March, the European Commission launched a formal investigation into the company and is reportedly preparing to charge it with DMA violations in the coming weeks. Earlier this year, Apple was fined US$1.95 billion for preventing app developers from informing iOS users about cheaper music subscription options outside Apple’s ecosystem.

Impact on European users

The delay in launching these AI features is a significant setback for Apple users in the European Union. Apple Intelligence, iPhone Mirroring on Mac, and SharePlay Screen Sharing are highly anticipated updates that aim to enhance the user experience by integrating more AI-driven functionalities. These features are part of Apple’s broader strategy to make its devices more interconnected and user-friendly.

However, the company’s stance on regulatory compliance highlights the complex relationship between tech giants and regulatory bodies. While Apple emphasises user privacy and data security, the DMA seeks to ensure fair competition and transparency, often putting these objectives at odds.

As the situation unfolds, European users will have to wait longer to experience these new features. It remains to be seen how Apple’s regulatory challenges will influence future product launches and updates in the EU.

Hot this week

Misconceptions about STEM careers continue to deter young women in Singapore

New research shows stereotypes and lack of support are deterring young women from STEM careers, posing a risk to Singaporeโ€™s innovation goals.

Evento Seguro simplifies insurance access for event organisers in Brazil

Evento Seguro by Chubb makes event insurance easier for Brazilian organisers through a digital platform by Sympla and discovermarket.

Oracle Cloud launches new Compute E6 shapes powered by AMDโ€™s 5th Gen EPYC processors

Oracle Cloud boosts performance with new Compute E6 shapes powered by 5th Gen AMD EPYC processors, now available in key global regions.

Tenable reveals privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run

Tenable uncovers a privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run, exposing risks linked to inherited permissions and service interdependencies.

Microsoft removes Windows 11 loophole for skipping account setup

Microsoft is blocking a well-known workaround that lets you set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, enforcing stricter installation rules.

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

YouTube expands shopping affiliate programme in Singapore through Shopee partnership

YouTube teams up with Shopee to launch its Shopping affiliate programme in Singapore, giving creators new ways to monetise their content.

Misconceptions about STEM careers continue to deter young women in Singapore

New research shows stereotypes and lack of support are deterring young women from STEM careers, posing a risk to Singaporeโ€™s innovation goals.

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

Related Articles