Apple is delaying the rollout date for its newest AI-powered features in Europe due to regulatory bottlenecks introduced by the European Union through the Digital Markets Act. The delay includes key functionalities like AI-enhanced screen mirroring and SharePlay, which were aimed at this year’s rollout.
Apple Intelligence, iPhone Mirroring, SharePlay Screen Sharing on Hold
The company announced in a statement on Friday it would not make its Apple Intelligence, iPhone Mirroring, and SharePlay Screen Sharing features available, it said, to the European Union this year.
Apple Intelligence, announced at this month’s WWDC event, is an array of AI capabilities that come pre-installed on Apple devices and perform other things, such as creating instant summaries of emails and automated audio transcriptions. The company announced a partnership with OpenAI to have ChatGPT available on the iPhone. iPhone Mirroring is a new feature that allows users to control their iPhone screen from their desktop using the macOS Sequoia update. SharePlay Screen Sharing is a FaceTime update that allows users to take control of a remote device
According to Bloomberg, the interoperability requirements of DMA will allow the company to work on product integrity in ways that risk user privacy and secure data. The company has harshly criticized DMA because it may force Apple to open up its platforms to third-party app stores and services in a way that will be detrimental to user security.
The DMA, which was passed by the European Commission in 2022, is designed to make the tech industry more competitive and equitable by forcing companies to adhere to a strict set of rules. The legislation targets “gatekeeper” companies like Apple, Google, and Meta, which are seen as having too much power in the digital marketplace.
On the issue, Apple has promised cooperation with the European Commission on finding a solution that would allow it to deliver these features to EU customers without compromising their safety. No timeline has yet been given, however, for when these features might be available in Europe. Meanwhile, Apple customers in Europe will have to wait while it cleans up the mess over its problems with the DMA.
