Apple Could Delay Its AI Features In EU Due To Big Tech Law

Apple says its Apple Intelligence generative AI tools, iPhone mirroring, and SharPlay screen sharing might not be available in the European Union in 2024, as previously reported by Bloomberg.

The Digital Markets Act (DMA), says Apple, citing the EU law that puts strict rules on “gatekeepers” that control huge online platforms to curb anticompetitive behavior. Recently, rumors have suggested that Apple and Meta could soon face charges over DMA violations.

As per the company, the DMA requirements saying those gatekeepers must let third-party companies interoperate with their services could compromise privacy and security.

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Why Is Apple Delaying Its AI Features In The EU?

According to an Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz (via The Verge):

“Two weeks ago, Apple unveiled hundreds of new features that we are excited to bring to our users around the world. We are highly motivated to make these technologies accessible to all users. However, due to the regulatory uncertainties brought about by the Digital Markets Act (DMA), we do not believe that we will be able to roll out three of these features — iPhone Mirroring, SharePlay Screen Sharing enhancements, and Apple Intelligence — to our EU users this year.

Specifically, 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. We are committed to collaborating with the European Commission in an attempt to find a solution that would enable us to deliver these features to our EU customers without compromising their safety.”

When asked about Apple’s statement, EU spokesperson Thomas Regnier said, “The EU is an attractive market of 450 million potential users, and has always been open for business for any company that wants to provide services in the European internal market. Gatekeepers are welcome to offer their services in Europe, provided that they comply with our rules aimed at ensuring fair competition.”

However it’s unclear what specifically causes these concerns, but Apple Intelligence offers several upgrades Siri, Genmoji, managing notifications, and taking scripted actions for different apps.

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Which Devices Will Get Apple Intelligence?

Appel Intelligence is coming soon, but not to every iPhone out there. Yes, you read that right! Users will need to have a device with an A17 Pro processor or M-series chip to use several features launched during its keynote at WWDC 2024. It means only iPhone 15 Pro users will get the iOS 18-related Apple Intelligence (AI) updates like Genmoji, Image Playground, the new Siri, and Writing Tools.

Then there are features like Smart Script and Math Notes on iPadOS 18 and the new features in Messages coming through iOS 18 that will be coming for anyone who can upgrade to the latest platforms. The best way to know what features will be able to use is to know what processor is in your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.