Apple recently announced that iOS 26, its latest iPhone software update, will not include all planned features for users in the European Union due to regulatory challenges. The company is working to follow the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to ensure fair competition, but this has led to some features being delayed.
One key feature affected is the “visited places” tool in Apple Maps, which tracks and saves locations users have been to. Apple says this feature, along with others, won’t be available in the EU when iOS 26 launches this fall. The company explained that the DMA’s rules create complexities that could impact user privacy and security, making it harder to roll out certain tools.
While Apple is committed to bringing these features to EU users eventually, no specific timeline was shared. This means EU iPhone users will get a version of iOS 26 with fewer capabilities compared to other regions, at least for now.
The decision reflects Apple’s efforts to balance innovation with compliance in the face of strict regulations. This news has sparked discussions among users, with some expressing disappointment over missing out on new features. Apple’s focus remains on delivering a smooth and secure experience, but the regulatory landscape in the EU is shaping what’s possible for iPhone users in the region.