Apple May Cut iOS 26 Features on iPhones Sold in Europe: What Users Need to Know
In a move that has taken many tech enthusiasts by surprise, Apple is reportedly planning to remove or limit certain iOS 26 features on iPhones sold in Europe. While Apple has not officially confirmed the full list of affected tools, the tech community is abuzz with speculation and early reports about what these changes might mean for users across the European Union (EU).
This decision appears to be tied to new and expanding regulations from the European Commission focused on digital markets, data privacy, and antitrust compliance. Apple, known for its tightly controlled ecosystem, now faces pressure to open up its software and hardware infrastructure—and the company seems to be responding cautiously.
Let’s dive into what’s happening, which features could be impacted, and how this could affect iPhone users in Europe.
Why Is Apple Making This Move?
The main reason behind this potential cutback in features is the Digital Markets Act (DMA)—a comprehensive regulation passed by the European Union in 2022, with full enforcement beginning in 2024–2025.
The DMA classifies Apple as a “gatekeeper,” meaning the company has a dominant position in the market and must follow stricter rules. These include:
- Allowing third-party app stores
- Supporting alternative payment systems
- Opening access to core technologies and APIs
- Ensuring data portability and user choice
Apple has historically resisted such changes, citing security and user experience concerns. But in Europe, the company has had to comply to avoid hefty fines, which could reach up to 10% of its global annual turnover.
Now, with iOS 26 set for global release in September 2025, Apple may opt to disable certain features altogether for European iPhones, rather than reengineering them to comply with EU-specific requirements.
What Features Might Be Affected?
While Apple has not officially listed which iOS 26 features could be cut or altered in Europe, several areas are under scrutiny:
1. App Store Enhancements
iOS 26 is rumored to include AI-powered app recommendations and deeper Apple ID personalization. But if these features rely on cross-app tracking or data collection methods that violate the DMA, they might not be available in EU countries.
2. New AI-Powered Siri
One of the biggest highlights of iOS 26 is the redesigned Siri, powered by on-device generative AI. However, data processing and privacy limitations imposed by the EU may restrict Siri’s full capabilities in the region.
Apple could choose to deactivate certain AI features or offer a limited Siri experience on European devices.
3. Universal App Sideloading
Although Apple was previously resistant, it now allows third-party app stores in Europe. But iOS 26 may go further globally—introducing a universal sideloading interface. That feature might be restricted or modified in the EU to comply with stricter vetting standards.
4. Messaging and FaceTime Upgrades
Advanced features like cross-platform messaging encryption, video filters, and AR enhancements could be impacted if they rely on Apple-exclusive infrastructure that contradicts EU openness mandates.
Some speculate that Apple may disable these functions altogether in the region rather than open them up.
How Will This Impact European Users?
For the average iPhone user in Europe, the effects may range from minor inconveniences to major frustrations. Depending on the final list of affected features, users could face:
- Reduced access to AI tools, especially in Siri and iMessage
- Limited customization within Apple ID and device settings
- Delayed rollouts of new iOS functions
- Compatibility issues with apps optimized for iOS 26 outside of Europe
This split experience—“iOS 26 Global” vs. “iOS 26 Europe”—could become a source of growing tension, especially for tech-savvy consumers who follow the latest trends and innovations.
Some fear this might encourage grey-market imports of non-European iPhones or cause loyal Apple fans to feel left behind.
Apple’s Strategy: A Line Between Compliance and Control
Apple is in a tough spot. On one hand, it wants to protect its core design philosophy—tight integration between hardware and software, user privacy, and high-quality control. On the other hand, it must comply with regional laws or face regulatory battles and fines.
By limiting certain features in Europe, Apple may be signaling to regulators:
“We will comply—but don’t expect full integration unless the laws change.”
This could also be a way for Apple to avoid setting precedents that might spill over into other markets like the U.S. or Asia, where similar regulatory pressures are beginning to emerge.
Will This Be the New Normal?
It’s too early to say whether Apple’s strategy will become permanent. There are three possible scenarios going forward:
- Apple adjusts its core software to fully comply with EU rules, restoring all features in future versions of iOS.
- The EU compromises, allowing certain Apple innovations in exchange for more transparency or security guarantees.
- The divide deepens, creating region-specific software experiences for the long term—something that Android has faced in markets like China and India.
For now, what’s clear is this: Apple’s battle with European regulators is just heating up, and iOS 26 is its latest frontline.
What Should iPhone Users in Europe Do?
If you’re an iPhone user in the EU, here are some tips to stay informed and prepared:
- Wait before updating to iOS 26—early reports will clarify what’s included or missing in your region.
- Follow Apple’s announcements closely during WWDC-style events or regional keynotes.
- If AI tools are important to you, consider exploring compatible third-party apps that follow EU standards.
- Be cautious about importing devices, as warranty and network compatibility issues may arise.
Final Thoughts: Innovation vs. Regulation
Apple’s decision to potentially limit iOS 26 features in Europe marks a critical moment in the tech world. It reflects a broader global shift: how far can innovation go before regulation pulls it back?
For Apple fans, it may be disappointing—but also a reminder that in the world of modern tech, freedom, privacy, and choice often compete for space.
Only time will tell if this is a temporary roadblock or the beginning of a new digital map, where tech giants redraw their features based on the region they serve.