Apple CEO and EU tech chief talk as Siri delay drags on

Key Takeaways

• EU Technology Commissioner Henna Virkkunen and Apple CEO Tim Cook held a video call on Monday described as 'constructive'
• Apple continues to withhold Siri AI features from EU iPhones and iPads, blaming DMA interoperability requirements
• The EU claims Apple has failed to develop interoperability standards that meet regulatory requirements

Apple CEO Tim Cook and EU Technology Commissioner Henna Virkkunen spoke by video call on Monday, with both sides calling the conversation 'constructive.' The meeting comes as Apple continues to block its Siri AI features from launching in Europe, and neither party gave any indication the standoff is close to ending.

A Commission spokesperson confirmed the call took place and said the two discussed 'topics of common interest' on which work continues. That diplomatic phrasing papers over a real dispute: Apple has refused to roll out Apple Intelligence, its AI suite including an upgraded Siri, anywhere in the EU's 27 member states.

Why Apple is blocking Siri in Europe

Apple's position is straightforward. The company says the Digital Markets Act's interoperability requirements would force it to compromise user privacy and data security. In an official statement, Apple said: 'We are concerned that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could force us to compromise the integrity of our products in ways that risk user privacy and data security.'

The DMA, which took effect in March 2024, requires large platforms like Apple to open up their systems to competitors. For Apple, this means potentially allowing third parties deeper access to iOS in ways the company argues create security vulnerabilities.

The Commission sees it differently. Regulators say Apple has been unable, or unwilling, to develop interoperability solutions that meet EU standards while maintaining security. 'Apple has not provided us with concrete commitments regarding how it will effectively comply with users' rights under the Digital Markets Act,' a Commission spokesperson said.

The financial stakes for Apple

This is not an abstract regulatory debate. Apple faces real financial exposure in Europe. In March 2024, the EU fined Apple €1.8 billion for anti-competitive App Store practices in music streaming. In September 2024, the European Court of Justice upheld a €13 billion tax ruling against Apple in Ireland.

For context, 10% of Apple's global turnover would exceed $38 billion based on recent annual revenue. The company clearly believes the risk of such fines is preferable to the risk of opening up iOS in ways it considers dangerous.

What 'constructive' actually means here

Diplomatic language aside, this video call represents the first high-level engagement between Apple's CEO and the new EU tech commissioner. Virkkunen took over the technology portfolio in late 2024, inheriting the Apple standoff from her predecessor Margrethe Vestager.

The fact that Cook and Virkkunen spoke directly suggests both sides see value in finding a path forward. But 'constructive' is the kind of word officials use when they want to signal progress without announcing anything concrete.

Translation: the door is open, but Apple needs to move. Whether Cook's call signals a shift in Apple's approach or simply a diplomatic gesture remains unclear.

What happens next

For European iPhone and iPad users, the practical impact is unchanged. Siri's AI features remain unavailable with no announced timeline for launch. Apple Intelligence, which includes smarter writing tools, image generation, and a significantly upgraded Siri, works in the US and other markets but not in the EU.

The Commission has tools to force compliance. It can open formal investigations, impose fines, and ultimately require Apple to change its behavior. But regulatory proceedings take time, and Apple has shown willingness to litigate rather than comply.

The most likely near-term outcome is more talks. Both sides have reasons to negotiate. Apple wants to avoid massive fines and the PR damage of being locked out of a major market. The EU wants to show the DMA has teeth without destroying its relationship with one of the world's largest tech companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Siri AI not available in Europe?

Apple says the EU's Digital Markets Act interoperability requirements would force the company to compromise user privacy and security. Apple has chosen to withhold AI features rather than comply with regulations it considers dangerous.

What is the Digital Markets Act?

The DMA is EU legislation that took effect in March 2024. It requires large tech platforms to open their systems to competitors and give users more control over their devices and data.

How much could Apple be fined for DMA violations?

The maximum penalty is €20 million or 10% of the company's worldwide annual turnover, whichever is higher. For Apple, 10% of global revenue would exceed $38 billion.

When will Apple Intelligence launch in Europe?

Apple has not announced a timeline. Given the ongoing dispute with EU regulators, European availability could be delayed indefinitely until both sides reach an agreement.

Who is Henna Virkkunen?

Virkkunen is the European Commission's Executive Vice President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy. She took over the technology portfolio in late 2024.

Source: Tech-Economic Times / ET