Musk Threatens Apple Device Ban Over OpenAI Integration

Elon Musk, known for his ventures such as Tesla, SpaceX, and OpenAI, strongly criticized Apple’s recent announcement regarding its integration of OpenAI into its operating system. Musk expressed his disapproval on Twitter, stating that if Apple proceeds with integrating OpenAI at the OS level, all Apple devices will be banned from his companies. He believes that such integration constitutes an “unacceptable security violation.” Musk further elaborated that visitors to his companies’ offices would be required to check their Apple devices at the door, which would then be kept in a Faraday cage to block electromagnetic fields.

Apple’s announcement, made by CEO Tim Cook, revealed that the next Apple operating system would feature ChatGPT directly integrated into iPhones. This integration would enable the chatbot to write iMessages and respond to other generative prompts. Despite Apple’s assurance that privacy protections are in place for users accessing ChatGPT, including obscured IP addresses and no storage of requests by OpenAI, Musk remains skeptical.

Elon Musk’s net worth is estimated to be around $207.9 billion, making him the wealthiest person in the world. In contrast, Tim Cook’s net worth is estimated at $2.1 billion. This clash between Musk and Apple is not the first. Musk has previously accused Apple of sabotaging Twitter after his acquisition, leading to a dispute that was later resolved. Musk has also been critical of OpenAI, accusing the company and its CEO Sam Altman of prioritizing profits over their original goal of developing open-source AI for the benefit of humanity. In response, OpenAI stated its intention to dismiss Musk’s claims.

Apple’s announcement comes as part of its efforts to compete in the AI market, joining other tech giants like Microsoft and Google. Musk’s own AI company, xAI, recently raised $6 billion in a funding round. Despite the announcement, it remains unclear when Apple plans to roll out the new operating system, leaving users in suspense regarding when they can expect to update their iPhones with artificial intelligence capabilities.