In a recent statement, Apple officials confirmed that iOS 26 features will be delayed in the European Union (EU). According to rumors, macOS Tahoe 26 will lack some exciting features in the EU, such as glass design, preview apps, and new games. Kyle Andeer, the company’s legal head, also said that they delayed iOS 26 features to protect users’ data.
However, users are trying to find another aspect of this decision. Is it about protecting users’ data or the company’s efforts to sidestep Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements? The act requires tech giants like Apple, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft to work with third-party apps and services. But Apple opposes the act, citing privacy and security risks.
Major iOS 26 new features
iOS 26 offers a wide range of new features, including better call controls, smarter battery insights, and major app updates. However, European users will miss many of the new advanced features even after the official release. Here are some of the key highlights included in the latest operating system:
- A virtual health coach.
- AI message translation in real time.
- Allows users to filter spam calls.
- Supports wireless charging.
- Adaptive power mode to save battery consumption.
- Auto-categorization
- Features dialogue boost to enhance speech and voice clarity.
- Custom playback speed allows you to adjust the speed of audio and video plays.
- Gives you better control over camera settings.
- Allows you to use your iPhone as a car key.
- Tracking food delivery and drivers.
- Liquid Glass Design.
- Integration with ChatGPT.
Expected missing iOS 26 features in EU
The company states it is not safe to launch some features in the EU because of DMA. As a result, the next iOS version may miss the following features in Europe:
- iPhone mirroring.
- Live activities.
- AI-powered health coaching.
- Smart calendar.
- Airdrop function.
- Location history tracking.
Missing the above-mentioned features means that users in Europe will not be able to control their iPhone from Mac. Moreover, the lack of live activities limits them to track real-time activities like timers and deliveries.
iOS 26 privacy concerns
According to Apple, DMA is making things more challenging for the company. Sharing data with other companies could harm users’ privacy. Senior company officials have described the DMA as unrealistic, arguing that it unfairly benefits certain companies in the market.
Complying with all the rules is hard for the Silicon Valley titan. The smartphone leader also blamed Meta for exploiting DMA rules to gain benefits. Whereas Meta’s major projects, such as Facebook and Instagram have nothing to do with the technology and users’ data that they are demanding.
In an official statement, authorities of Apple said that DMA is not designed to protect users’ data but a few European companies.
Reasons for Apple’s resistance to EU rules
In a White Paper, Apple explains that Meta demanded iPhone mirroring access from it as DMA gives the right. However, acting upon the request could risk user privacy. Meta has already been fined for it many times.
Apple did not openly disclose, but it seems that the iOS creator is much concerned about its market position. Agreeing to requests for sharing data could potentially enable Android developers to build their own mirroring feature.
The strong security features set Apple apart from other companies, while sharing data could compromise security. Although the company has not said it, iOS 26 features delayed could be another technique to avoid following the DMA rules.
Apple’s efforts to comply with EU digital policy
Apple followed some DMA rules to avoid fines like allowing users to install apps from outside the App Store. Now users in Europe can use different web browsers and other payment apps to make contactless payments.
Moreover, Apple also launched 600 new developer tools to make changes in an effort to comply with EU digital policy. Complying completely with DMA rules will make it harder for the company to protect users’ data, while ensuring a secure experience.
Which iPhones will support iOS 26?
iOS 26 will work on iPhones from iPhone 11 and newer. But only the advanced iPhone models, like iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone Pro Max will support advanced AI features. Because these phones have powerful chips. Older iPhones, including the iPhone 11, can still run iOS 26 but with limited functionality.
Release date for iOS 26?
iOS 26 is expected to launch in September 2025.
Has iOS 26 beta version been released?
Yes, Apple released a beta version of iOS 26 in July 2025. The beta version does not work perfectly fine and shows some performance and battery issues.
Wrapping Up
Not offering complete iOS 26 features could be a strategy to trick DMA rules, but Apple also has the right to defend its company’s policy. Despite the unavailability of some features, iOS 26 still provides many advanced features. Apple is struggling to maintain a balance between delivering innovation and complying with DMA rules.
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