Apple has temporarily suspended its AI-powered news summarization feature after facing backlash over repeated inaccuracies. The feature, which became available to readers using the latest iPhones in the UK last December, aimed to enhance user efficiency by delivering concise news summaries. However, the tech giant halted the service after numerous errors in summarizing headlines from respected outlets like the New York Times and the Washington Post were reported.
Media outlets and press groups criticized the feature, insisting it was not yet ready for deployment. The issue gained significant attention when the BBC filed a complaint after Apple's AI falsely alerted readers that Luigi Mangione had shot himself. These errors have compounded existing concerns about misinformation and declining trust in news sources.
"We're pleased that Apple has listened to our concerns and is pausing the summarisation feature for news," – a BBC spokesperson
The AI feature was part of Apple's broader strategy to showcase its developments in artificial intelligence, an area where the company faces mounting investor pressure. Investors had been hopeful that advancements in AI would stimulate demand for Apple's products, particularly in light of struggling sales in China. Unfortunately, following the suspension of the AI feature, Apple saw its shares fall by more than 4% during Thursday's trading.
Amidst this backdrop, Apple remains committed to refining the problematic feature. An Apple spokesperson assured users that improvements are underway and will be included in a future software update.
"We are working on improvements and will make them available in a future software update," – an Apple spokesperson
"With the latest beta software releases of iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3, Notification summaries for the News & Entertainment category will be temporarily unavailable," – an Apple spokesperson
The company initially introduced the AI summarization tool as an optional add-on, purposed to streamline access to information. Yet, its premature deployment led to unintended consequences. As journalists and social media users highlighted errors, pressure mounted on Apple to address these shortcomings promptly.
In response to this situation, media organizations like the BBC have expressed willingness to collaborate with Apple in refining the service.
"We look forward to working with them constructively on next steps. Our priority is the accuracy of the news we deliver to audiences which is essential to building and maintaining trust." – a BBC spokesperson