Apple Inc. has postponed approving an update to an email app that features AI-powered tools due to fears that it could generate inappropriate content for children.
On Thursday, the Wall Street Journal stated that Apple had blocked an update to the email app BlueMail, which is based on the customized version of OpenAI’s GPT-3 language model. Ben Volach, co-founder of BlueMail developer Blix Inc., told the Journal that the update was blocked last week. Blix Inc. and Apple did not respond to Reuters’ request for comment.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which can generate content in response to user prompts, has become popular in the tech industry. Microsoft and Alphabet Inc.’s Google have both released their own AI chatbots this month.
However, Apple is wary of the technology’s potential to generate inappropriate content for children and is cautious in approving an update to the app. The company is well aware of the dangers of AI-generated content and its potential to cause harm, as evidenced by its policy of blocking apps with controversial content.
The incident raises questions about AI technology and its implications for the safety of consumers, particularly children. It also highlights the importance of regulating AI-powered tools and ensuring they are used responsibly.
For now, Apple’s decision to delay the update to the email app shows that the company is taking necessary steps to protect its users from potentially harmful content generated by AI technology.