Apple has firmly denied Elon Musk’s claims that the App Store shows favoritism toward OpenAI’s ChatGPT over other AI-based apps like Musk’s own Grok. The company emphasised that it applies its App Review Guidelines uniformly to all developers and said no AI app is given preferential treatment.
Musk’s Accusations Spark Controversy
Earlier this week, Elon Musk publicly claimed that ChatGPT benefited from slappings-free review and promotion, while his AI app Grok had been subjected to repeated rejections. In response, Apple emphasised that all submissions are judged strictly on technical, content, and legal standards, citing a level playing field for all AI developers.
The company maintains that Grok was declined for failing to meet specific App Store requirements—not because it was from Musk. Apple reiterated that every app undergoes the same rigorous review process, regardless of developer identity or origin.
The App Store Review Process Explained
Apple’s App Review Guidelines are designed to safeguard security, user experience, and legal compliance. Apps are evaluated based on several criteria, including user safety, privacy, value, performance, and content standards. Apple stressed that Grok’s rejection stemmed from regulatory and technical issues — not developer bias — and that it remains open to reconsideration following revisions.
Apple-managed AI tools and third-party apps alike are subject to the same discovery, editorial placement, and feature processes. In fact, the company noted that several high-profile AI apps are regularly featured in the App Store across categories, highlighting its impartial curation.
The Broader AI App Ecosystem
Musk responded that insofar as users find ChatGPT in featured sections or trending lists more easily, “that is enough to kill.” However, Apple pointed out that curation is based on editorial value, usage data, and overall quality—common to all apps.
Other AI app developers have raised concerns around discoverability on Apple platforms, noting tight visibility compared to web-based access. Industry analysts stress that getting featured is not assured and depends on performance metrics, user satisfaction, and compliance.
Why This Tension Matters
- Developer Trust & Platform Access
Perceived bias by the App Store could erode developer confidence—especially for emerging AI platforms seeking equitable exposure. - Market Dynamics of AI Apps
If one AI app is perceived to dominate via preferential placement, others may face unfair competitive hurdles, limiting choice and innovation. - Regulation & Platform Power
App Store curation continues to be scrutinised by digital regulation authorities. This row underscores how tightly controlled platforms can impact perceived fairness and antitrust scrutiny.
What’s at Stake for Apple and AI Developers
Apple has highlighted its neutrality, pointing to visible placement of AI apps across categories like Productivity, Utilities, and Education. Grok’s developer, alongside others, is encouraged to remedy identifiable violations and resubmit—just as any other developer would.
For AI startups and brands, the situation underscores the importance of mastering both technological compliance and editorial appeal. Whether apps thrive or stall often depends on a combination of UX polish, data privacy commitment, and alignment with review criteria—rather than high-profile branding alone.
Future Implications
As AI continues to generate consumer interest, the App Store’s gatekeeping role will become increasingly consequential. Apple anticipates web-based regulation and legislation requiring greater transparency in app reviews. For now, the company’s stance remains that fairness, not favoritism, is its operating principle.