Apple (AAPL)has dismissed allegations from tech mogul Elon Musk that it has unjustly manipulated its App Store ratings to support competitors like OpenAI.
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Apple rejected the allegations in a statement reported by theBBC. The technology giant stated: "We showcase thousands of applications through charts, algorithmic suggestions, and expert-vetted lists based on objective standards." It mentioned that it was created to be "free from bias and impartial."
Musk’s Threats
The reply came following Musk's warning totake legal actionagainst Apple through his xAI venture. Musk asserted that the iPhone company acted in a "way that makes it impossible for any"AIcompany other than OpenAI to achieve the top position in the App Store.
Musk also labeled OpenAI's founder Sam Altman a "liar," following his statement that Tesla(TSLA)The boss utilized his position to "gain advantages for himself and his own businesses."
Apple and OpenAI formed a collaboration last year to incorporate the AI company's models and ChatGPT into Apple devices, including Siri and iOS. However, there is no indication that the App Store gives preference to OpenAI over other competitors. The AI App store has witnessed AI startups like Perplexity and even the Chinese company DeepSeek reaching the top of the charts in the past 12 months.
The conflict between Musk and Altman has, over time, involved numerous lawsuits, email leaks, and social media attacks.
This involves Musk taking legal action against OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman. last yearaccusing of breaching its original purpose by theAIstartup. Musk argues that the developer of ChatGPT and Sora is focusing on earnings rather than serving human welfare.
Core Concerns
This is not the first instance where Apple has encountered antitrust issues. Musk's comments arise as there is increasing regulatory and industry attention on the company's dominance over its App Store.
That's why legal and regulatory risks are crucial for the stock and its investors – see below.
In June, Apple faced a setback in its prolonged legal battle against Fortnite developer Epic Games. The U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Apple's attempt to postpone a court decision that would force changes to the App Store to increase competition. The judgment also prohibits Apple from taking commissions on purchases made via external links and from regulating how developers guide users to these payment methods.
It has also encountered antitrust penalties abroad.€500 million fine from the EU.
Is Apple a Strong Stock to Purchase Right Now?
On, AAPL has a Moderate Buy rating from analysts, with 16 Buy, 12 Hold, and 1 Sell recommendations. The highest price projection is $280.The average price prediction for AAPL stock is $236.93, indicating a 2.06% potential increase.
