Siri AI in Europe: Five Months Behind According to Mark Gurman

The deployment of Siri AI on iPhone in the European Union is on hold due to a standoff over the Digital Markets Act. Between regulatory requirements, security concerns raised by Apple, and Brussels' stance, the assistant is expected to remain unavailable for several more months, according to Mark Gurman.

DMA and iOS at the Heart of the Stalemate, Apple and Brussels Stand Firm

The blockage of Siri AI on European iPhones is linked to the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act and the closed nature of iOS. This regulation prohibits Apple from using iOS to favor Siri AI over other AI assistants, a constraint that does not apply to Macs. In June, Apple explained that, according to a strict interpretation of the DMA by European authorities, the company would be required to grant any virtual assistant direct access to users' private data upon the arrival of Siri AI in the EU, without the necessary protections deemed essential. Apple claims to be seeking a solution to this issue. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Brussels stated that the decision not to deploy Siri AI in the EU rests solely with Apple. In France, as in the rest of the Union, the unavailability of Siri AI stems from a dispute with the European Commission regarding the application of the DMA.

No Date in Sight and a Slipping Timeline of Several Months

Siri AI is available on iPhone everywhere except in the European Union and China, and no date has been announced for its availability on compatible devices in the EU. According to Mark Gurman, the launch of Siri AI in the European Union could be delayed by five months at best, and the issue may not be resolved for several months. He also indicates that Apple is banking on pressure from frustrated customers to influence Brussels. At this stage, no more precise timeline has been communicated.

Features of Siri AI and Apple's Previous Experience in the EU

Siri AI, introduced this year, operates using large language models and incorporates AI agent capabilities. This service particularly relies on a collaboration with Google, allowing Apple to utilize Gemini technologies. In September, Apple stated that it is working on a solution that preserves user privacy and security. The launch of Apple Intelligence had already faced a similar delay in France and the European Union due to specific digital regulations in the bloc, shedding light on the current situation.