Apple and EU Clash Over Delayed Siri AI Rollout in Europe
Apple and the European Union are trading blame over the delayed introduction of Siri's new AI features to EU users. Apple cited the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), while the EU executive claims the decision rests solely with Apple and that the DMA does not prevent new product launches. The dispute centers on data access concerns.
Key points
- Apple announced an upgraded Siri AI assistant but stated it would not be available for EU users initially.
- Apple attributed the delay to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), citing concerns over data access protections.
- The European Commission, through spokesman Thomas Regnier, disputed Apple's claim, stating the DMA does not prohibit new product rollouts.
- The EU executive asserts that the decision not to launch Siri AI in Europe is entirely Apple's responsibility.
- The core of the disagreement involves Apple's interpretation of DMA requirements regarding data access for virtual assistants.
Apple and European Union officials are engaged in a public disagreement over the delayed launch of Siri's new artificial intelligence features within the EU. The tech giant stated that the upgraded assistant, unveiled at its recent developer conference, would not be available to iPhone and iPad users in the European bloc.
Apple's explanation pointed to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), suggesting that the regulation's interpretation by Brussels would necessitate granting third-party virtual assistants access to user data without adequate safeguards. The company contended that this "extreme interpretation" of the DMA prevented a timely rollout.
However, the European Commission has refuted Apple's assertions. A spokesperson for the EU's executive arm stated that "absolutely nothing in the DMA prohibits Apple from introducing new products in the EU." The Commission maintains that the decision to withhold the new Siri AI from European users is solely Apple's, and the DMA itself does not create such barriers. This standoff highlights ongoing tensions between Big Tech and EU regulators over digital market competition and data privacy.
Sources
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