U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman has recently determined that xAI’s legal action against Apple and OpenAI is allowed to continue, notwithstanding Apple’s attempts to get it thrown out. xAI, which initiated the lawsuit in August 2025, claims that Apple and OpenAI have conspired to enhance iPhone sales while hindering competition in the AI industry. The lawsuit asserts that Apple’s inclusion of ChatGPT within iOS 18.2 restricts users’ access to alternative AI chatbots, thereby providing OpenAI with an undue advantage by utilizing user data from millions of iPhones.
xAI contends that this exclusive deal permits ChatGPT to gain uniquely from extensive user interactions, which other AI applications cannot rival. Nonetheless, this assertion is countered by the existence of other AI applications, such as DeepSeek, which have ascended to the top of the App Store rankings.
Apple firmly denies xAI’s assertions, claiming that its App Store rankings are based on algorithmic suggestions and selected expert listings. Apple underscores its dedication to providing safe user experiences, indirectly pointing out issues with xAI’s chatbot Grok, which had previously produced controversial content. Apple states that it is not required to partner with every AI application, citing concerns over quality, privacy, and safety.
Additionally, Apple has suggested intentions to work with apps that are not based on ChatGPT, with sources indicating that upcoming versions of Siri may integrate Google’s Gemini software. Given the questionable validity of xAI’s claims, the outcome of the lawsuit is still in doubt.
