PSA: iPhone Mirroring not coming to EU with iOS 18.4

PSA: iPhone Mirroring not coming to EU with iOS 18.4

  • 25.03.2025 00:56
  • 9to5mac.com
  • Keywords: Apple, EU

Apple released iOS 18.4, enabling Apple Intelligence in the EU but leaving iPhone Mirroring unavailable. Despite hopes, the feature remains excluded, along with SharePlay Screen Sharing, for unclear reasons.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is not making iPhone Mirroring available in the EU with iOS 18.4, despite enabling other features like Apple Intelligence.

EU

EU

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Analyst rating: Buy

The European Union's regulatory environment is preventing Apple from releasing certain features, such as iPhone Mirroring, to its users in the region.

Context

Analysis of iPhone Mirroring Availability in the EU with iOS 18.4

Key Facts and Data Points

  • iOS 18.4 Release Date: Official release in early April.
  • Enabled Features:
    • Apple Intelligence (with non-English language support).
    • AI features for EU users.
  • Unavailable Features:
    • iPhone Mirroring: A feature that allows wireless viewing and control of an iPhone screen from a Mac.
    • SharePlay Screen Sharing: A new FaceTime feature.

Market Implications

  • Regulatory Impact: Apple's decision highlights ongoing regulatory challenges in the EU, potentially affecting feature availability for compliance reasons.
  • Competitive Dynamics:
    • Competitors like Google (with Android) may gain an edge by offering similar features without such restrictions.
    • Users seeking mirroring functionality might explore alternatives or switch platforms.

Business Insights

  • User Satisfaction: The exclusion of iPhone Mirroring could lead to dissatisfaction among EU users expecting these features, impacting perceived value and loyalty.
  • Strategic Considerations:
    • Apple's cautious approach suggests prioritization of regulatory compliance over feature expansion in the EU market.
    • Potential long-term effects include increased focus on regulatory adaptation and investment in alternative solutions.

Long-Term Effects

  • Adaptation Costs: Apple may need to incur additional costs to comply with EU regulations, affecting product development strategies.
  • Regulatory Scrutiny: Heightened scrutiny of tech companies' feature availability decisions by EU regulators.