- By Alex David
- Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:06 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has officially responded to Elon Musk’s recent claims that Apple favours OpenAI in its App Store rankings. The statement comes shortly after Musk announced potential legal action against the iPhone maker for alleged antitrust violations.
Elon Musk’s Allegations Against Apple
On Monday, Musk claimed that Apple is making it “impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1” in the App Store. He alleged that Apple’s policies unfairly prevent other AI apps, including his company’s xAI Grok, from competing on equal grounds.
“xAI will take immediate legal action,” Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter).
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Sam Altman Dismisses the Claims
Responding via X, Altman described Musk’s accusation as “remarkable,” suggesting that such criticism was surprising given Musk’s alleged business practices.
“This is a remarkable claim given what I have heard alleged that Elon does to manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn’t like,” Altman wrote.
App Store Ranking Data
According to Sensor Tower data cited by Reuters:
- ChatGPT app the 1st spot on the US App Store’s Top Free Apps list.
- xAI Grok ranks 5th.
- Google Gemini sits at 57th position.
- Interestingly, ChatGPT also leads rankings on the Google Play Store.
Apple’s Partnership with OpenAI
Apple recently joined forces with OpenAI to incorporate ChatGPT into iPhones, iPads and Macs, sparking speculation from Elon Musk, who previously criticised Apple's "Must Have" section for neglecting both X and Grok despite their strong chart performance. This collaboration has drawn further speculation.
No Official Response from Apple
As yet, Apple has not issued any statement in response to Musk's accusations and statements.