Apple revealed its collaboration with OpenAI at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) 2024. The tech giant plans to integrate OpenAI's ChatGPT into its iOS, iPadOS, and macOS platforms through the upcoming iOS 18 software update. This integration aims to streamline user experience by embedding OpenAI-made ChatGPT's functionalities directly into Apple’s operating systems. However, this move has met with stern opposition from Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, who is also the co-founder of OpenAI.
Musk, who also owns the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), has expressed severe reservations about the security implications of this integration. He warned that Apple devices could face a ban at his companies if the integration proceeds as planned.
Of course, in classic Musk style, he also shared a meme on the whole ordeal, this time with a meme from the Tamil movie, "Thappattam".
Musk To Ban Apple Devices?
Musk's disapproval was publicly conveyed through a tweet on Tuesday. He highlighted the potential security risks, stating, "If Apple integrates OpenAI at the OS level, then Apple devices will be banned at my companies. That is an unacceptable security violation." He added that visitors to his companies would have to leave their Apple devices in a Faraday cage to prevent any possible data breaches.
Additionally, Musk took a jab at Apple's data-sharing practices by posting a meme on his platform. The meme, derived from the 2017 Tamil movie 'Thappattam', depicted a couple sharing coconut water, symbolising how Apple might share user data with OpenAI, potentially compromising privacy. The image was captioned "How intelligence works," underscoring Musk’s concerns about data security and privacy.
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Musk further criticised Apple’s understanding and management of data privacy. He argued that Apple lacks insight into the consequences of sharing user data with OpenAI, casting doubt on the company’s ability to safeguard user information while partnering with OpenAI, led by Sam Altman.
This development has sparked a debate over the balance between technological advancement and data security, with Musk's comments highlighting the potential risks involved in such high-level integrations.