Elon Musk is once again in a public spat with Apple, this time over the tech giant’s new partnership with OpenAI. At the Worldwide Developer’s Conference (WWDC) on Monday, Apple announced its new AI software, Apple Intelligence, which will be integrated across the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. In a separate announcement, Apple revealed a partnership with OpenAI, allowing the integration of ChatGPT powered by GPT-4 into some of its software, including the newly improved Siri. This integration is set to be available for free without requiring an account on iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia later this year.
Apple stated that Siri, upon user permission, can utilize ChatGPT’s extensive knowledge to provide direct answers. Following this announcement, Musk took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to criticize the partnership. He threatened to ban Apple devices at all his companies if Apple proceeds with integrating OpenAI at the OS level, labeling it as an “unacceptable security violation.” He further stated that any visitors to his companies would need to store their Apple devices in a Faraday cage, which blocks electromagnetic transmissions.
Musk expressed concerns that Apple, by partnering with a third-party AI, is venturing into technology it doesn’t fully understand and cannot create independently. He argued that it is “patently absurd” for Apple to rely on OpenAI and that the company cannot ensure user security once data is handed over to OpenAI. Musk accused Apple of selling users’ data down the river, although he did not provide evidence to support these claims.
Apple, in its announcement, emphasized that privacy protections are built-in for users accessing ChatGPT. It stated that device IP addresses are kept private, and OpenAI will not store requests. Users who choose to connect their accounts will be subject to ChatGPT’s data-use policies. Siri will request user permission before sending any questions, documents, or photos to ChatGPT and will present the answers directly. Additionally, ChatGPT will be integrated into Apple’s systemwide Writing Tools, allowing users to generate content and images to complement their writing, all while maintaining privacy protections.
Musk’s disdain for OpenAI is not new. Despite being a co-founder and initial funder of OpenAI, he has had a public falling out with its CEO, Sam Altman, and even sued OpenAI, accusing it of deviating from its original mission of being open-sourced and developing AGI for the benefit of humanity. Since then, Musk has launched his own AI company, xAI, and a ChatGPT rival named Grok.
Musk has also had previous conflicts with Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook. However, they appeared to have reconciled somewhat when Cook invited Musk for a tour of Apple HQ in November 2022. Despite this, Musk responded to Cook’s recent promotion of Apple Intelligence with strong disapproval, warning that all Apple devices would be banned from his companies’ premises if the “creepy spyware” is not stopped.
OpenAI and Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The tension between Musk and Apple adds another layer to the ongoing debates about AI integration, privacy, and corporate responsibility in the tech industry. As Apple moves forward with its AI advancements, the clash with Musk underscores the broader concerns and challenges associated with AI technology and data privacy.
Musk’s latest comments highlight a growing rift between tech giants over AI ethics and implementation. His criticism reflects a deep skepticism about the ability of large tech companies to handle sensitive user data responsibly, especially when third-party partnerships are involved. Musk’s threat to ban Apple devices is a significant escalation in the ongoing debate about AI’s role in technology and privacy.
The potential ban of Apple devices in Musk’s companies raises practical concerns for employees and visitors. Implementing such a ban would require strict enforcement measures, including the use of Faraday cages to store devices, which could disrupt normal business operations. It also highlights the extreme measures Musk is willing to take to protect what he views as essential privacy and security standards.
Apple’s assurances about privacy protections aim to address these concerns, but the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen. The integration of ChatGPT into Siri and other Apple applications represents a significant step forward in AI capabilities, but it also introduces new risks. Ensuring that user data is protected and that privacy standards are upheld will be crucial for maintaining user trust.
Musk’s feud with OpenAI also plays a role in his opposition to Apple’s new partnership. His departure from OpenAI and the subsequent launch of his own AI ventures suggest a competitive element to his criticism. Musk’s accusations against OpenAI, including claims that it has strayed from its original mission, add another layer of complexity to the debate.
The integration of AI into everyday technology is a rapidly evolving field, with significant implications for privacy, security, and user experience. Apple’s move to incorporate ChatGPT into its ecosystem is a bold step that could redefine how users interact with their devices. However, it also raises important questions about data security and the ethical use of AI.
As Apple and other tech giants continue to push the boundaries of AI, the industry must grapple with these challenges. The balance between innovation and privacy will be a key factor in shaping the future of technology. Musk’s vocal opposition serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining rigorous standards and transparency in the development and implementation of AI technologies.
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