Apple recently rolled out the Release Candidate (RC) of iOS 18.4 to developers and beta testers, a milestone update by allowing Apple Intelligence (AI) in the European Union (EU). Yet, iPhone Mirroring is left in the dark for regional iPhone users.
Why Is iPhone Mirroring Blocked in the EU?
For those who don't know iPhone Mirroring, it's one of the most awaited features that enable users to mirror and control their iPhone screen wirelessly right from their Mac.
With this feature, users can easily control notifications, use apps without jumping from one iPhone to another, and answer messages. Ironically, this won't be available in most European countries yet, according to Bloomberg.
Apple blames the lack of iPhone Mirroring in the EU on "regulatory uncertainties" caused by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This antitrust law is intended to encourage healthy competition and impose stringent interoperability standards.
In Apple's view, adhering to these regulations may "compromise the integrity of our products" and pose security threats to users.
Although Apple Intelligence, the AI-based suite of features for the company, has been approved in the EU with iOS 18.4, iPhone Mirroring is still off-limits. The Cupertino giant hasn't specifically stated why it made that differentiation but keeps referencing regulatory issues as the major reason.
Read more: iPhone 17 to Reportedly Get ProMotion Display—Do iPhone Users Really Care About High Refresh Rates?
SharePlay Screen Sharing is Still Off-Limits
Along with iPhone Mirroring, another feature that is disabled in the EU is SharePlay Screen Sharing. This feature, intended for effortless screen sharing while making FaceTime calls is also banned for the same legal reasons.
Apple Intelligence Expands with iOS 18.4
Despite these limitations, iOS 18.4 brings exciting updates for EU users by introducing Apple Intelligence features in multiple languages. This move expands the accessibility of AI-driven tools to enhance the overall user experience.
As for the launch date of iOS 18.4, 9to5Mac reports that we should expect it to arrive in early April so that's only a week away from now. However, EU users can expect AI advancements, though; iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing may take longer to arrive.
