Apple pushed back on Elon Musk’s claim that the App Store stacks rankings in favour of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The company declared the system remains fair and free of bias. Apple emphasised that app rankings rely on charts, algorithmic recommendations, and expert-curated lists driven by objective criteria.
This response followed an accusation from Elon Musk on X that Apple is violating antitrust rules by blocking any AI app besides ChatGPT from topping the charts. He claimed the situation made it “impossible for any AI company besides OpenAI to reach #1” and threatened immediate legal action.
Apple’s statement stressed its dedication to safe discovery for users while offering valuable exposure to developers. The company said thousands of apps earn promotion through transparent, objective processes.
Public data challenges the narrative provided by Elon Musk. AI apps such as DeepSeek and Perplexity have reached number one on Apple App Store charts. DeepSeek led rankings in early 2025, while Perplexity hit the top spot in India in mid-July. Sensor Tower data and screenshots suggest that Musk’s own Grok briefly held the number one free app spot in February, after xAI made it free. Today, Grok ranks fifth among free apps, and ChatGPT remains at number one.
Also Read – Musk Threatens to Sue Apple, Alleges Rigging of App Store to Favor ChatGPT
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, responded to the xAI CEO’s claims by calling them “remarkable.” Altman accused Elon Musk of manipulating X’s algorithm to benefit his businesses and harm competitors. He invited Musk to sign an affidavit stating he never altered X’s algorithm for personal gain.
Observers note that Apple’s emphasis on safe discovery may hint at Grok’s controversial content. Apple may well limit its editorial support for apps that fail to meet content standards, regardless of their download rate.
This incident, which includes Musk, Apple, and OpenAI, may help shape the new dynamics of the app economy. Questions arise as to what constitutes a fair and objective ranking system, platform power, content moderation, and access to the market, among others.
This fight is currently unfolding in the background of Apple’s ongoing regulatory battles. The company faces antitrust litigation from the US Department of Justice and is appealing a ruling in its ongoing battle with Epic Games. The dispute has highlighted the role that platform rules and rankings play in determining the AI app market.