Apple has announced a delay in the rollout of its new AI features, dubbed “Apple Intelligence,” within the European Union. This decision is a direct result of the stringent EU regulations under the Digital Markets Act, which aim to ensure market competition and user privacy.

The Digital Markets Act, aimed at regulating large digital platforms identified as “gatekeepers,” enforces interoperability requirements that Apple believes might compromise product integrity, user privacy, and data security. Consequently, Apple has decided not to launch three significant features in the EU market this year, potentially affecting millions of users and influencing hardware sales.

Apple is grappling with specific provisions that mandate allowing third-party app installations and control over user data usage. These changes are poised to alter how Apple operates, forcing them to adapt their business model and technical approach in Europe. This regulatory pressure comes at a time when Apple had planned to enhance its devices with features such as iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing, but this was postponed due to these legal constraints.

The Digital Markets Act reshaped how companies like Apple interact with the market and significantly expanded consumer rights. Under this act, users can install apps from competing app stores and make decisions regarding using their data across different services. These provisions aim to empower consumers but present challenges for established tech giants accustomed to controlling their ecosystems.

In response, Apple is considering allowing the installation of third-party app stores on its devices, a move speculated upon since 2023. While this could open up new markets and opportunities for app developers, cybersecurity experts express concerns about the risks this could pose to user safety. These adjustments require Apple to balance compliance with innovation, ensuring they can still offer robust, secure products under the new EU rules.