Apple And EU Hold Constructive Talks Amid Siri AI Dispute
European technology chief Henna Virkkunen and Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook held what the European Commission described as a “constructive” discussion this week, following a public disagreement over the delayed rollout of Apple’s upgraded Siri AI features across the European Union.
The talks come after Apple and EU regulators exchanged criticism last month over competition rules that the company says have prevented it from launching the enhanced Siri AI for iPhone and iPad users in the bloc.
European Commission Describes Meeting as Constructive
A European Commission spokesperson confirmed that the conversation between Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen and Tim Cook had taken place.
According to the spokesperson, the discussion covered issues of mutual interest and will continue through ongoing engagement. However, the Commission did not provide further details about the topics discussed or whether any agreement had been reached.
The exchange follows growing tensions between Apple and European regulators over compliance with the bloc’s digital competition framework.
Apple and EU Remain at Odds Over Siri AI
Apple has argued that its upgraded Siri AI will not initially be available for iPhone and iPad users in the European Union because of regulatory requirements. The company has also criticised the European Commission, saying it has not engaged constructively to ensure that privacy and security protections on Apple devices are maintained.
The Commission has rejected that claim. Instead, it has said Apple has not developed the necessary interoperability measures required to comply with European Union standards.
The disagreement centres on the implementation of the Digital Markets Act, which introduces obligations for major technology companies operating within the EU.
Digital Markets Act Shapes Technology Rollout
Apple has previously stated that the Digital Markets Act has delayed the introduction of several features for European users. These include iPhone Mirroring for Mac, Live Translation with AirPods and certain location-based functions in Maps.
The legislation aims to increase competition in digital markets, provide rival companies with greater opportunities to compete and expand consumer choice across the European Union.
Companies found to have breached the Digital Markets Act can face penalties of up to 10% of their global annual turnover.
Wider Transatlantic Tensions
The European Union’s stricter approach to technology regulation has also become a point of disagreement with the United States. President Donald Trump has criticised the bloc’s tougher rules and substantial financial penalties, arguing that they unfairly affect major American technology companies.
Europe remains an important market for Apple. The region accounted for nearly 27% of the company’s total sales during its most recent fiscal year, although Apple does not separately report revenue generated specifically within the European Union.