Apple delays new features in EU due to DMA rules

Apple has warned that several new features will be delayed in Europe due to difficulties in complying with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The company explains that the new rules require opening up branded services to third-party devices, which Apple believes poses risks to user security and privacy.

In particular, the launch of AI-powered Live Translation for AirPods, iPhone mirroring, and the Places Visited and Favorite Routes features in Apple Maps have been delayed. Apple says it has not yet found a way to integrate them with third-party devices without compromising data security.

However, there are some improvements. The iOS 26.1 beta version revealed a notification forwarding feature that will allow the iPhone to send notifications to third-party devices, such as competing smartwatches. Tools are also being prepared that will make it easier to connect the iPhone to third-party accessories.

Apple says it is spending "thousands of hours" complying with the DMA, but admits the list of delayed features in Europe is likely to grow. The EU has given the company until the end of 2025 to implement most of the new features or face fines. In April, Apple was fined $580 million for violating App Store rules.

By the way, as the Financial Times writes, Apple even called for the abolition of the DMA and the adoption of another law that would better meet the realities of the market. Formally, the company appeals to security issues, but experts emphasize that Apple seeks to maintain a "closed ecosystem" to keep users within its products. Denying Europeans some functions could become a tool for pressure on regulators in this conflict.