Apple Intelligence and EU Compliance Issues

Apple announced at the 2024 WWDC event that the new generative AI features under the Apple Intelligence brand will not be available in European Union (EU) countries this year. The primary reason behind this decision is compliance issues with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into effect last year.

Apple Intelligence Preview

Impact of the Digital Markets Act
The Digital Markets Act requires large technology companies to adhere to specific regulations and implement strict measures for user privacy and data security. Apple stated that the new AI features could conflict with these regulations as they involve mandatory integrations between the company’s applications, potentially threatening user privacy [source 1 ]() [source 2 ].

Apple’s Statement
To comply with these regulations, Apple decided to postpone the release of these new AI features in the EU for at least a year. The company emphasized that it is working with the European Commission to find a solution that would allow these features to be delivered without compromising user safety. Apple expressed concerns that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could jeopardize the integrity of its products. [source]

Scope of Features
The Apple Intelligence AI features include iPhone mirroring and SharePlay screen sharing. These functionalities are designed to enhance device integration and usability, but they will be delayed in the EU due to the DMA regulations [source]

Apple’s Future Plans and Outcomes

Recently, Apple has faced several restrictions in Europe for not complying with the DMA. To avoid further complications, Apple has decided to delay the rollout of these AI features for at least a year. The company plans to make these features compliant with the DMA by 2025 [source](https://appleinsider.com/articles/24/06/28/eu-hits-back-at-apple-withholding-apple-intelligence-from-the-region) [source](https://www.theregister.com/2024/06/21/apple_intelligence_eu/).

This situation highlights the regulatory challenges Apple faces in the European market and its ongoing concerns regarding user privacy and data security. The steps Apple takes to comply with EU regulations and the challenges it encounters will be closely watched by the tech industry.