Cupertino, June 22, 2024, The Europe Today: Apple announced on Friday that it would delay the rollout of its recently unveiled AI features in Europe, citing “regulatory uncertainties” as the primary reason. The delay stems from concerns regarding the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which is aimed at curbing the power of major tech companies.
An Apple spokesperson explained the decision, stating, “We do not believe we will be able to roll out these features to our EU users this year.” The spokesperson emphasized that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could potentially force Apple to compromise the integrity of its products, posing risks to user privacy and data security.
Earlier this month, Apple introduced “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI features designed to enhance its devices. This announcement included a notable partnership with OpenAI to bring ChatGPT to iPhone users. The move was seen as Apple’s effort to assure its user base that it remains at the forefront of AI innovation.
However, the company has decided to put these AI capabilities on hold in Europe. “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,” the spokesperson added.
In addition to the AI features, Apple is also delaying the release of enhancements to its iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing functionalities in Europe.
Apple Intelligence, which is powered exclusively by the company’s in-house technology, promises features such as the ability to create custom emojis based on natural language descriptions and to generate brief summaries of emails within the mailbox.
The DMA, part of the EU’s broader effort to ensure fair competition, outlines specific obligations for designated internet gatekeepers, including Apple. The European Commission, which enforces the DMA, has the authority to investigate, fine, and impose structural remedies on companies that do not comply. Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to 10 percent of a company’s global annual turnover, with repeat offenders facing fines of up to 20 percent.
The EU’s competition chief, Margrethe Vestager, recently indicated that Apple is under scrutiny for potentially failing to comply with the DMA. This ongoing investigation further complicates the tech giant’s plans to introduce new features in the European market.
