The EU’s Digital Markets Act: Fines, Delayed Features, and Unclear Benefits
Apple’s Siri Delay Sparks EU Frustration
Poinews.com – Apple’s decision to delay Siri AI in the EU under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) has sparked frustration among regulators. The move highlights growing tensions between tech giants and the European Commission, as companies increasingly opt to postpone or withhold features in the bloc. This trend is pushing the tech policy discussion beyond Brussels’ walls, drawing attention from consumers and local lawmakers.
Regulatory Backlash and Exemption Requests
The EU Commission’s stance on the Digital Markets Act has drawn criticism, particularly after Apple cited a lack of interoperability solutions to justify its delay.
“The EU won’t offer exemptions, just as a traffic officer wouldn’t allow a driver to bypass a speed limit,”
said a Commission spokesperson, emphasizing the law’s strict enforcement. According to the statement, Apple’s choice to delay Siri AI is its own, despite the DMA not prohibiting new product launches in the EU.
Dynamic Rules and Moving Goalposts
While the DMA imposes clear obligations on gatekeepers, its implementation has been described as flexible and evolving. The Commission has the authority to adjust rules through measures like non-compliance decisions, market investigations, and interim actions. This adaptability, however, has led some to liken the law to “moving goalposts,” a criticism echoed by major tech firms.
Broader Impacts on Data and Innovation
Similar concerns apply to the Data Act, which became enforceable in 2025. Critics argue that while the legislation aims to level the playing field for smaller companies, its practical effects remain unclear. For example, data startups seeking access to vehicle information from Mercedes face uncertain pathways, as the rules are still being refined under the EU’s Data Union Strategy.
“Guess what, that’s not an option,”
the spokesperson reiterated, stressing that the EU’s regulations are non-negotiable.
Challenges for Startups and Fair Competition
Many startups and scaleups criticize large corporations—whether in automotive, pharmaceutical, or tech sectors—for unfair practices that hinder their growth. These include restricted platform access and data monopolies. The DMA and Data Act were designed to address such issues, yet their impact is still being evaluated. Without concrete evidence, stakeholders rely on anecdotal feedback, which may not fully reflect the law’s long-term effectiveness.
