Apple has paused a new AI-driven news alert feature following widespread criticism of repeated mistakes in headline summaries. The feature, designed to simplify notifications, drew significant complaints for inaccuracies and its handling of sensitive news topics.
Criticism Over AI-Generated Errors
Apple faced mounting pressure to suspend the service, which sent misleading notifications via news apps. For instance, the BBC reported that an AI alert falsely claimed Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had shot himself. Additionally, the AI inaccurately summarized headlines from the New York Times and Washington Post. Journalists and social media users highlighted these errors, fueling concerns about misinformation and trust in news.
Media outlets criticized the feature, warning it was not ready for public use. They argued that the AI’s inaccuracies contributed to misinformation and declining confidence in media.
The BBC lodged a formal complaint in December, but Apple only responded in January, promising a software update to clarify AI’s role in summaries. This delay led to further criticism that Apple was not addressing the issue adequately.
Apple’s Response and Future Plans
Apple has now fully disabled the feature for news and entertainment apps. An Apple spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating, “Notification summaries for the News & Entertainment category will be temporarily unavailable in the latest beta software releases of iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3.” For other apps, AI-generated summaries will appear in italicized text.
The BBC welcomed the suspension, emphasizing its commitment to accurate reporting. “We’re pleased Apple has listened to our concerns. Accuracy is essential for maintaining trust,” a spokesperson said.
Apple originally launched the feature in the UK in December to streamline app notifications. It grouped recent notifications into a single summary for users’ lock screens. Despite its intentions, the feature faced backlash, especially as Apple navigates pressure to showcase AI advancements.
Business Impacts
Apple’s decision to halt the feature comes as the company faces challenges, including slowing sales in China. On Thursday, Apple’s stock dropped more than 4%, reflecting investor concerns about the company’s performance and AI developments.
Apple assured users it would improve the feature and reintroduce it in a future update.
