iPhone users in Europe might face a bit of a surprise when iOS 26 arrives. New reports suggest that Apple plans to hold back some features for its European audience. This move comes as a direct response to Europe’s Digital Markets Act, known as the DMA.
Missing Features in Europe
The word from a recent Wall Street Journal report is clear: these delays are all about sticking to the rules. Apple, based in Cupertino, feels it is hard to adapt some iOS 26 functions to Europe’s strict laws. They believe it would take too much time to get them ready. This kind of delay has happened before.
One specific feature mentioned to be missing from the European iOS 26 release is “Visited Places” in Apple Maps. This tool would automatically keep a history of places you have been. This record would then be handy for you to look back on later.
While “Visited Places” is the only feature named right now, it might not be the only one. Apple is looking at other functions that may also be held back in the EU. They say they are working hard to find solutions. Their goal is to close the gap between Europe and the rest of the world. However, no one knows how long that will take.
The Ongoing Clash: Apple vs. DMA
This isn’t the first time Apple and the European Union have disagreed over the Digital Markets Act. This law wants to make big tech companies open their systems. Because of the DMA, Apple has already had to make changes. They now allow other app stores on iPhones and iPads. Users can also pick different payment methods. Plus, third parties can now use the iPhone’s NFC chip. You can read more about the DMA rules on the official EU website.
Apple, however, argues that opening its software and devices can put user privacy and security at risk. They also claim it could harm their business model. But if they do not follow the rules, Apple faces big fines. So, to avoid these penalties, the company has decided to slow down the release of some features. This affects iOS 26 and other Apple platforms too.
For now, the first test versions of iOS 26 are out for software developers. These versions include the new Liquid Glass interface and other features shown at WWDC 2025. Apple said the first public test version would be out in July. So, it should be available any day now. The full, finished version of iOS 26 is expected to launch in September, likely when the new iPhone 17 comes out.