Europeans planning to buy Apple’s new AirPods Pro 3 headphones next week are in for a disappointment: the devices’ unique live translation function will be disabled across the European Union.
The company says it is easier to switch the feature off entirely than comply with Brussels’ complex regulations.
Apple has previously argued that the EU’s proposed Digital Markets Act—which lawmakers claim is designed to “boost competition”—would instead
force Apple to compromise the integrity of its products in ways that endanger users’ privacy and data security.
The law requires Apple to make certain technologies interoperable with competitors’ devices—while countries outside the EU, such as the United Kingdom, are not subject to these restrictions.
Once again, Brussels is prioritizing regulation over innovation.
