Apple Introduces iPhone 16 – "Apple Intelligence" Not Yet Available in Germany

Yesterday, Apple unveiled the new iPhone 16 during a major keynote event. While the announcement of the new iPhone generation thrilled many tech enthusiasts, one detail caused a stir in Europe, particularly in Germany: Apple announced that the highly anticipated AI feature "Apple Intelligence" would not be available in the EU for the time being. This is mainly due to regulatory hurdles imposed by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

What is "Apple Intelligence"?

With "Apple Intelligence," Apple brings a comprehensive artificial intelligence to its devices, aimed at significantly simplifying users' daily lives. The main features include generative tools for image and text creation, as well as advanced voice controls that far surpass Siri’s current capabilities. In the U.S. and other markets, "Apple Intelligence" will be an integral part of iOS 18, which comes with the iPhone 16.
According to Apple's plans, "Apple Intelligence" is expected to revolutionize how users interact with their devices. Users would be able to generate or edit content such as texts and images directly on their iPhones using AI. The enhancement of voice controls and new personalization options for the iPhone were also presented as highlights.

Specific Examples of Generative Tools

1. Generative Text Creation AI-assisted text generation will allow users to automatically create content such as emails, notes, and even creative texts based on simple inputs. Similar to existing tools (like Google Bard or ChatGPT), the AI will provide suggestions for sentences and paragraphs, automatically completing them.

2. Image Editing and Generation Users will be able to create and edit images through simple text inputs. For example, a user could describe a scene, and the AI would generate a corresponding image. The AI also enables automatic photo enhancements or adjustments to specific details.

3. Personalized Emojis (Genmoji) Apple plans to introduce "Genmoji," an advanced version of emojis that can be created in real-time according to users’ preferences. These dynamic and personalized emojis offer a new form of non-verbal communication, unique to the Apple ecosystem.

4. Advanced Voice Assistant While Siri currently offers limited functionality compared to other voice assistants like Google Assistant, "Apple Intelligence" is set to revolutionize Siri. The AI is expected to better understand and execute complex tasks, such as scheduling appointments, making calls, and drafting messages with minimal user interaction.

5. Writing Tools and Assistants This feature is especially relevant for professional settings: "Apple Intelligence" provides tools that assist users in creating documents, presentations, or other content. It enables automatic formatting and layouts, as well as offering creative suggestions. This is similar to the Office assistance tools integrated into Microsoft’s software.

6. Multitasking Features like "iPhone Mirroring" and "SharePlay Screen Sharing" These features will allow users to mirror their iPhone to other devices like Macs or share screen content in real-time with others.

Want to learn more about Apple Intelligence? Read the full article here.

Why is "Apple Intelligence" Not Available in Germany?

The decision to delay the launch of "Apple Intelligence" in the EU is based on the regulations of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to regulate the market dominance of large tech companies and create fair competition. In an official statement, Apple pointed to "regulatory uncertainties" as the reason why it is currently not possible to introduce AI features in the EU, including Germany.
The DMA imposes strict requirements on companies designated as "gatekeepers" – a term that applies to major tech firms like Apple, Google, and Amazon. The EU legislature wants to ensure that these companies do not abuse their market power and has implemented specific regulations for the use of data and technology. As a result, Apple has delayed the launch of "Apple Intelligence" in the EU until 2025, pending the clarification of legal conditions.

Alternatives to Apple Intelligence

In the EU, companies like Google and Samsung offer advanced AI features that comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Google Assistant and Bard enable generative text and image functions by adhering to clear data protection guidelines, giving users control over their data. Samsung uses AI for image optimization and device control, also complying with strict data protection requirements. These companies ensure transparency in data processing and provide users with options to restrict or control the processing of their personal data, allowing them to offer AI services in the EU. Apple, on the other hand, has not yet fully met these requirements, which has delayed the rollout of "Apple Intelligence."

Reactions and Disappointment Among Users

The news that "Apple Intelligence" will not be available in Germany for the time being has disappointed many users. Especially tech-savvy users who were eagerly anticipating the new AI technology will now have to wait. Many fans are wondering whether Apple might lose market share in the EU due to the delayed rollout of "Apple Intelligence." Competition, especially from China and Korea, is not standing still and is also offering advanced AI features.

Looking Ahead: Hope for 2025

Although the launch of "Apple Intelligence" in Germany has been postponed, the feature is not off the table. Apple has announced that it is continuing to work on resolving the legal challenges. German users could potentially gain access to the AI features starting in 2025. However, there is no specific information yet on when "Apple Intelligence" will actually be available in the EU.
For Apple, the planned rollout of "Apple Intelligence" was an important step in keeping pace with other tech companies in the field of artificial intelligence. While the delay in the EU may be disappointing in the short term, it remains to be seen how Apple will adapt its plans to meet regulatory requirements in the long term.

Conclusion: Exciting New iPhone Generation – But Without AI in Germany

The iPhone 16 brings numerous new features and technical improvements. However, there is some disappointment for users in Germany who were looking forward to the AI feature "Apple Intelligence." For now, we can only hope that the legal hurdles will soon be overcome and that "Apple Intelligence" will arrive in Europe in the coming years.
In the months ahead, it will become clear how Apple responds to these regulatory challenges and what alternatives may be available for European customers.