Apple Blames EU Law For Delayed Features And Security Risks

Apple has taken a firm stance against the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing that the legislation is negatively affecting European customers. In a recent statement, Apple asserted that the DMA’s provisions are causing delays in releasing new features, undermining the App Store model, and exposing iPhones to potential risks, including scams, gambling, and explicit content apps.

What Features Are Affected

The DMA mandates that Apple must make certain aspects of its technology compatible with non-Apple products before these are launched to the public. Apple contends that this requirement is hindering progress for European users, putting them a step behind global counterparts. The features currently on hold include:

• iPhone Mirroring: This feature allows users to view and manage their iPhone from a Mac. Apple suggests it hasn’t yet found a secure method to support non-Apple devices without compromising data security.
• AirPods Live Translation: An AI-driven tool designed for real-time conversation translation. Apple has engineered it for on-device processing to ensure privacy, but adapting it for third-party hardware presents challenges.
• Apple Maps’ Visited Places and Preferred Routes: These features rely on retaining sensitive location data on the device itself. Apple claims it cannot safely share this information with external developers.

Apple argues that until suitable solutions are found, it risks fines or shipment restrictions if these features are released to EU customers under current regulations.

Security and Privacy Issues

Aside from postponed features, Apple says the DMA introduces security risks. The law forces support for sideloading and alternative app stores, meaning EU users can now acquire apps from sources other than Apple’s App Store. Apple has indicated this shift has led to explicit and gambling apps appearing on iPhones for the first time through platforms like AltStore.

Additionally, Apple expressed concern over requests from competitors seeking access to highly sensitive data. Some companies reportedly want full notification histories, encompassing the content of messages, emails, and medical alerts, along with Wi-Fi logs that could disclose hospital or courthouse visits. Apple points out that even it doesn’t access such detailed data, yet is being compelled to comply under the DMA.

EU’s Response

European authorities have cast aside Apple’s assertions, labeling them as mere lobbying tactics. An EU spokesperson stated that the DMA does not necessitate a drop in privacy or security standards. Instead, the law aims to provide users with more choices and foster fair market competition. The Commission claims to have already informed Apple about how to meet interoperability requirements, suggesting the company has pushed back at every phase.

Previously, Apple was fined over €500 million due to DMA violations involving App Store payment practices and has filed for an appeal. Regulators continue to assess feedback from businesses and the public, with a conclusive report on the DMA’s outcomes slated for release in May 2026.

Diverse Opinions

While some users rally behind Apple in defending its ecosystem, others accuse the company of amplifying concerns. Developer Steve Troughton-Smith has accused Apple of using the law selectively to “punish its users and developers,” deeming the company’s cautionary remarks as deceptive. Critics argue that aspects like improved interoperability might enhance experiences for users of non-Apple devices.

For now, the impact of Apple’s stance is felt by European users facing delays in accessing some of the tech giant’s latest features. Apple maintains it is dedicating extensive engineering resources to align with DMA requirements, yet contends the legislation hampers innovation and leaves EU consumers trailing behind. With regulators unyielding and Apple unlikely to retreat, the showdown over the DMA continues, leaving EU users caught in the conflict.

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