Apple has announced that the next developer beta of iPhone software, iOS 18, is set to be released on Monday, June 24. This release schedule was confirmed by Apple itself in a statement that also mentioned that Apple Intelligence will not be released in the EU this year. The delay in the release of Apple Intelligence in the EU is due to concerns about new regulations, specifically the Digital Markets Act aimed at regulating Big Tech. This delay will also affect features such as iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing in the EU.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will withhold Apple Intelligence in the EU due to interoperability requirements. This decision has raised questions about how consumers in the EU will respond to missing out on these new features. Apple’s relationship with European regulators may also be tested as it navigates the impact of the new regulations on its product releases. Despite these challenges, Apple is sticking to its release timetable for the software updates.
Apple rarely provides specific release dates for its software updates, but the timing of the iOS 18 beta release on June 24 follows the usual cadence of beta releases. The company confirmed that Apple Intelligence will be available for beta testing in the summer for U.S. English users, while EU users will have to wait. Monday’s update will introduce two key features, iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing, which enhance the user experience by allowing interaction between different Apple devices.
iPhone Mirroring is a feature that allows users to access their iPhone from a Mac and interact with it as if it were in their hand. Notifications from the iPhone will appear on the Mac, and users can control the iPhone using the Mac’s keyboard or trackpad. SharePlay Screen Sharing, a feature already available in iPadOS 17, is being upgraded in the new iPadOS 18 version. Users will be able to draw on their screen and have it appear on a friend’s device, as well as request permission to remote-control their friend’s device.
While Apple Intelligence will not be available on Monday, the public beta for the new OS versions is expected to be released in July. This update offers exciting new features and enhancements that will improve the user experience for Apple device users. Despite the delay in the EU, Apple is moving forward with its software updates and remains committed to providing innovative technology to users worldwide.
