OpenAI is reportedly considering legal action against Apple due to dissatisfaction with their integration of ChatGPT into Apple’s ecosystem. The frustrations stem from the partnership that began at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June 2024, where OpenAI’s ChatGPT was integrated into Siri and the iPhone’s Visual Intelligence feature. This initiative was anticipated to drive substantial subscriptions and visibility for OpenAI, but the reality has fallen short of expectations.
Sources indicate that OpenAI has brought in a law firm to explore its legal options, including the possibility of sending a formal notice of breach of contract to Apple. However, any potential legal actions may be postponed until after an ongoing trial involving OpenAI and Elon Musk reaches a conclusion.
The issues reportedly arise from OpenAI’s perception that the ChatGPT integration has been poorly promoted within Apple’s operating systems, leaving many of its features difficult to locate. Expectations of significant revenue growth from the partnership have not materialized, leading to frustration within OpenAI’s ranks. An executive reportedly voiced disappointment, stating, “They basically said, ‘OpenAI needs to take a leap of faith and trust us.’ It didn’t work out well.”
Apple, for its part, has its own set of grievances regarding OpenAI’s privacy protocols and has reportedly expressed annoyance over OpenAI’s ventures into hardware, led by former Apple executives, including ex-design chief Jony Ive.
This situation highlights Apple’s reputation as a challenging partner for many tech companies, all of whom must navigate the realities of Apple’s tight control over its platform. Historically, companies such as Google and Adobe have faced similar hurdles. For instance, Google Maps was once integral to the iPhone’s appeal. Apple’s decision to replace it with Apple Maps in 2012 led to significant backlash, culminating in a rare public apology from Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook.
Other notable examples of friction include Apple’s long-standing refusal to support Adobe Flash on its devices, and Spotify’s prolonged battles with Apple over perceived unfair practices in the App Store, which eventually led to a large fine from the European Commission.
Despite the tensions, some partnerships have evolved. Google, previously at odds with Apple, is now its AI infrastructure partner, having clinched a multiyear agreement valued at about $1 billion per year.
In addition to the potential issues with Apple, OpenAI is dealing with its own internal challenges, including a lawsuit from Elon Musk accusing the organization of deviating from its original mission. Furthermore, tensions have reportedly surfaced with Microsoft, OpenAI’s largest supporter, as the company seeks greater autonomy ahead of its IPO ambitions.
