Apple has paused its AI-powered news alerts feature following widespread criticism over repeated errors in summarizing news headlines. The decision comes after mounting complaints from media outlets, including the BBC, about inaccuracies that sparked concerns about misinformation and trust in news reporting.
The feature, launched in the UK in December, aimed to streamline notifications by summarizing multiple app alerts into a single message. However, it faced backlash when an alert falsely claimed that Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had shot himself. Similar errors were reported in summaries from the New York Times and the Washington Post, prompting warnings that the technology was not ready for public use.
Apple initially promised a software update to clarify AI’s role in creating summaries but has now opted to disable the feature entirely for news and entertainment apps. In a statement, the company confirmed the suspension with the latest beta releases of iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3, emphasizing plans for improvements in a future update.
For non-news apps, AI-generated alerts will continue, distinguished by italicized text. A BBC spokesperson welcomed Apple’s decision, highlighting the importance of accuracy in maintaining trust in news delivery.
The suspension comes as Apple faces growing pressure to showcase advancements in AI amid slowing iPhone sales, including a 4% dip in shares following reports of challenges in the Chinese market.
