This move follows the recent efforts by Slovenian officials to ensure that more global tech companies cater to the country’s language needs, particularly in the digital and entertainment sectors.
The introduction of Slovenian menus on Apple devices comes at a time when the government is increasingly focusing on expanding Slovenian presence in digital environments. The effort doesn’t stop with Apple – there’s also pressure on car manufacturers to ensure that all new vehicles sold in Slovenia will offer Slovenian language options in their entertainment systems. Companies have been given a transitional period to make the necessary adjustments.
However, streaming giants like Netflix and Disney remain unaffected by this push, despite significant public criticism over the lack of Slovenian subtitles on their platforms. Officials acknowledge that addressing this gap will require action at the European level. “We will have to tackle this issue at a European level, and we are making the effort through various international organisations and with the help of members of the European Parliament,” said expert Peter Ahačič.
Lenart J. Kučić, a media policy adviser to the Slovenian culture minister, emphasised the growing pressure on companies to adopt Slovenian in the digital space, noting, “The more Slovenian there is in the digital environment, the more unofficial pressure there is on everyone else to do the same.” Additionally, officials have indicated that a Slovenian virtual assistant is expected to be available soon, further boosting the language’s presence in the tech landscape.
