Apple’s latest operating systems, iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, introduced several innovative features aimed at improving the user experience across devices. One of the most anticipated additions is iPhone Mirroring, a feature that enables users to access and control their iPhones directly from their Macs. This functionality offers seamless integration, allowing users to view notifications, manage apps, transfer files, and interact with their iPhones without physically handling the device.
However, iPhone Mirroring remains unavailable for Apple users in the European Union (EU), and the upcoming iOS 18.4 update does not bring any changes regarding its availability. While Apple has cited regulatory uncertainty stemming from the Digital Markets Act (DMA) as the reason behind this limitation, no clear timeline has been provided on whether or when the feature will be rolled out in the region.
What is iPhone Mirroring and Why Does It Matter?
iPhone Mirroring is a highly convenient feature that allows Mac users to wirelessly access their iPhones without needing to pick them up. This feature provides the ability to:
- Use iPhone apps directly on a Mac screen.
- Send and receive messages without switching devices.
- Manage notifications in real-time.
- Drag and drop files effortlessly between iPhone and Mac.
- Control iPhone settings and apps remotely.
This level of cross-device functionality enhances productivity, making it particularly useful for professionals, students, and general users who frequently switch between their iPhone and Mac.
Also Read: New Banshee Stealer Variant Bypasses macOS Antivirus with Encryption
Why is iPhone Mirroring Unavailable in the EU?
Apple has attributed the absence of iPhone Mirroring in the EU to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a regulatory framework designed to promote fair competition among digital service providers. According to Apple, the DMA’s interoperability requirements could force compromises in product integrity, potentially creating security risks for users.
The company has not elaborated on the specific technical or legal barriers preventing the rollout of iPhone Mirroring in the EU. However, Apple has previously stated that implementing interoperability measures under the DMA could require them to alter fundamental security and privacy structures in their ecosystem.
Other features affected by the DMA include:
- Apple Intelligence (Apple’s AI-powered system, which remains inaccessible in the EU).
- FaceTime’s SharePlay Screen Sharing, another remote-access feature that is currently unavailable to EU users.
The lack of transparency regarding the timeline and roadmap for iPhone Mirroring in the EU has left many Apple users frustrated. As the iOS 18.4 update approaches in early April, expectations were high that this restriction would be lifted. However, reports from 9to5Mac confirm that even in the Release Candidate (RC) version of iOS 18.4, iPhone Mirroring remains inactive in the EU.
What Features Will EU Users Receive in iOS 18.4?
Although iPhone Mirroring is not included, iOS 18.4 does bring some new enhancements for EU users, including:
- Apple Intelligence Rollout: Apple’s AI features will finally start rolling out to iPhone users in the EU.
- Expanded Language Support: More languages will be added to Apple’s AI-powered features, increasing accessibility.
- Bug Fixes and Security Improvements: As with every update, iOS 18.4 will address various performance issues and security vulnerabilities.
- App Store and Third-Party App Changes: Apple is adjusting the way third-party apps interact with iOS, partially complying with DMA regulations.
While these updates are welcome, the absence of iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing means that EU users still miss out on key functionalities that their counterparts in other regions enjoy.
Also Read: ChatGPT for macOS Gains Apple Notes and Third-Party Apps Integration
The Future of iPhone Mirroring in the EU
At this time, Apple has not provided any official statements on when or if iPhone Mirroring will be available for EU users. Given the company’s strong stance on maintaining product integrity and security, it is likely that Apple will either:
- Find a compliance workaround that satisfies DMA regulations without compromising security.
- Negotiate with EU regulators to delay or modify the rules surrounding interoperability.
- Permanently exclude iPhone Mirroring from the EU unless regulatory conditions change.
While Apple has successfully adapted to past regulatory challenges, such as USB-C mandates and third-party app store allowances, the situation with iPhone Mirroring remains uncertain.
Comparing iPhone Mirroring Availability by Region
| Feature | US & Other Regions | EU Users |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone Mirroring | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Apple Intelligence | ✅ Available | ✅ Coming in iOS 18.4 |
| FaceTime SharePlay Screen Sharing | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Third-Party App Stores | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Allowed (DMA Compliance) |
Alternatives to iPhone Mirroring for EU Users
Since iPhone Mirroring remains unavailable in the EU, users looking for a similar experience may explore alternative solutions, such as:
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like AirDroid or TeamViewer offer remote access to iPhones, though with limitations.
- QuickTime Player (Mac Only): Users can connect their iPhones to Macs using a USB cable and view their screens via QuickTime screen recording.
- Sidecar for iPad Users: If you have an iPad, Sidecar allows Mac integration, though this does not extend to iPhones.
- iCloud & Handoff Features: Features like Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud Drive allow for some degree of cross-device connectivity.
While these workarounds provide partial solutions, they lack the seamless integration and convenience that iPhone Mirroring offers.
Also Read: Apple Releases iOS 18.3 and macOS Sequoia Betas
Final Thoughts
The absence of iPhone Mirroring in the EU highlights the ongoing regulatory challenges faced by Apple under the Digital Markets Act. While EU users will benefit from Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.4, key features like iPhone Mirroring and FaceTime Screen Sharing remain unavailable. Apple has yet to confirm if or when this restriction will be lifted, leaving the future of iPhone Mirroring uncertain for EU users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is iPhone Mirroring in macOS Sequoia?
iPhone Mirroring is a feature that lets Mac users control their iPhones directly from their computers, providing access to apps, messages, and notifications.
2. Why is iPhone Mirroring not available in the EU?
Apple has cited regulatory uncertainty caused by the Digital Markets Act (DMA) as the reason for withholding the feature in the EU.
3. Will iPhone Mirroring be included in iOS 18.4 for EU users?
No, reports confirm that iOS 18.4 will not enable iPhone Mirroring for EU users.
4. When will iPhone Mirroring be available in the EU?
There is currently no official timeline from Apple regarding when or if iPhone Mirroring will be introduced in the EU.
5. Does this restriction affect all Apple devices in the EU?
Yes, both iPhone and Mac users in the EU are unable to access iPhone Mirroring.
6. Are there any alternatives to iPhone Mirroring?
Yes, users can try third-party apps, QuickTime screen sharing, or Handoff features, though these are not as seamless.
7. What other features are missing in the EU?
Along with iPhone Mirroring, EU users also lack FaceTime SharePlay Screen Sharing and had a delayed rollout for Apple Intelligence.
8. Can I use a VPN to enable iPhone Mirroring in the EU?
No, VPNs do not bypass regional restrictions for system-level Apple features.
9. Is Apple working on a solution to bring iPhone Mirroring to the EU?
Apple has not provided any public statements about future availability.
10. Is the Digital Markets Act the only reason for this restriction?
While DMA regulations are the official reason, Apple may also be considering security and competitive factors in its decision.