Apple’s decision to delay the launch of Siri AI in the European Union has triggered a sharp response from EU regulators, who say the company chose not to meet its legal obligations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and instead requested special treatment.
Apple announced this week that Siri AI will not be available at launch on iPhone and iPad in the EU, arguing that regulatory requirements created privacy and security concerns. The company said it proposed several solutions, including a system called Trusted System Agent, but claimed regulators refused to engage constructively.
EU Says the Decision Was Apple’s Alone
Speaking in Brussels, European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier rejected Apple’s criticism and said the company failed to develop interoperability measures that complied with EU rules.
“The decision not to roll out Siri AI in the EU is Apple’s and Apple’s only. Apple was simply unable to develop interoperability solutions that meet essential EU privacy and security standards. Instead of trying to find a suitable compliance solution, Apple simply made a request to the European Commission to be exempted from their interoperability obligations under the DMA, and this for at least 18 months. That’s not an option.” — Thomas Regnier, European Commission spokesperson
According to the Commission, nothing in the DMA prevents Apple from launching new products in Europe. Regulators say Apple requested an 18-month exemption from interoperability requirements rather than presenting a compliant solution.
Apple and EU Offer Different Versions
Apple previously said the DMA would require AI systems to receive what it described as “nearly unlimited access” to user devices. The company also expressed disappointment that regulators did not accept its proposals for enabling third-party assistants to work safely with Siri AI.
However, the Commission’s response suggests the dispute centered on Apple’s exemption request rather than ongoing negotiations over technical solutions. Regulators maintain that compliance with interoperability rules remains mandatory for all designated gatekeepers under the DMA.
For now, EU users will miss out on Siri AI features when Apple’s major software updates arrive later this year. Apple says it hopes to bring the experience to the region in the future, although the company has not provided a timeline.
