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Apple bans ChatGPT from workplace

Apple bans ChatGPT from workplace

The company reportedly fears leaks from workers using AI.

Lewis Wallace
May 19, 2023

Apple is apparently so freaked out by the possibility of leaks that it banned its employees from using external artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for work.

That must be at least a little frustrating, since AI can quickly generate words, images and even code. And that (usually) smart and speedy output can boost productivity on all types of tasks. As just one example, Cult of Mac recently interviewed an indie developer who used ChatGPT to build an iPhone app from scratch.

Not to fear, though. The Wall Street Journal, which broke the story of Apple’s ChatGPT ban, said Cupertino is already hard at work cooking up internal generative AI tools for employees’ use.

Ironically, news of Apple’s ban came the same day that OpenAI’s official ChatGPT app for iPhone arrived. It quickly shot up the App Store charts. Tell us in today’s poll (below) if you’ve used ChatGPT yet.

Also in today’s newsletter:

Got a HomePod or HomePod mini? Here’s how to make sure you get the latest software update.
Apple TV+ drama The Last Thing He Told Me just wrapped, so it’s officially time for you binge-only streamers to settle in and watch. (If you’ve been following along, here’s our recap of the emotional series finale.)
Need Microsoft software? Only suckers pay full price.
If you own AirPods Pro 2, we’ve got a colorful case for you.
And finally, if your web browser’s a hot mess of open tabs, that could be taking a psychological toll on you. We’ve got some tips on freeing up your Safari tabs — and your mind!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Apple bans employees from using ChatGPT and other generative AI tools

The company reportedly informs its employees via an internal memo that they cannot use outside artificial intelligence for work purposes.

How to get the latest HomePod software update

HomePod Software 16.4.1 is out. Here’s how to make sure your Apple smart speaker has the latest software version.

‘The Last Thing He Told Me’ finale packs an emotional wallop [Apple TV+ recap]

The Apple TV+ limited series comes to a shockingly emotional end this week.

How to manage browser tabs so they don't stress you out

A recent study finds that web browser clutter causes stress for many people. But Apple offers tools to organize tabs and cut the clutter.

^{A message from CdkeySales}

Why pay more for Microsoft Windows? Check CdkeySales $13 Windows 10 and other offers.

There's no time like the present to score amazing, limited-time deals on crucial Microsoft programs.

Apple TV+ summer plans include new ‘Peanuts’ specials

You can expect two fresh “Peanuts” specials, new series "Camp Snoopy" and much more (including several shows that don’t involve Charlie Brown and his pals).

Master practically anything with 80% off this lifetime learning bundle

The Unlimited Lifetime Learning Subscription Bundle pairs highly rated courses from StackSkills with Rosetta Stone.

Today in Apple history: The world’s first Apple Stores open their doors

On May 19, 2001, Cupertino revolutionized the world of computer shopping by opening the first two Apple Stores.

^{A message from the Cult of Mac Store}

AirPods Pro 2 case with lanyard adds 'triple protection'

Elago's Liquid Hybrid Case, available with a handy nylon lanyard, is now available in the Cult of Mac Store at a great price.

‘Drops of God’ takes a tricky trip to Italy [Apple TV+ recap]

The Apple TV+ show about two potential heirs to a fortune in wine finds Camille on an excursion and Issei in a fog this week.

Edifier's affordable new headphones bring hi-res audio

The company added LDAC Bluetooth support and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification to its best-selling $80 cans.

Photographer's sluggish Intel MacBook Air needs Apple silicon relief [Setups]

A working student looks forward to an Apple silicon upgrade as his MacBook Air struggles with some photo- and video-editing tasks.

Tweetz o’ the day

Well, the official ChatGPT app for iOS is here. Rather disappointed to see that the design is so incredibly… soulless.
One of the coolest problems in design now is to make AI products humane, ethical and approachable. Removing all soul is not the right move, in my opinion.
— Sebastiaan de With (@sdw)
4:54 PM • May 18, 2023

Preparing for a warm welcome.
— Apple TV (@AppleTV)
5:00 PM • May 19, 2023

I’ve built 261 working 13” MacBook Airs in about 15 days! These came from mountains of incomplete and broken “junk” lots that are scrapped more often than not. Now on to the 11” Air piles! #RightToRepair#righttorefurbish
— John Bumstead (@RDKLInc)
3:17 AM • May 18, 2023

One more thing ...

❝

From the earliest days at Apple, I realized that we thrived when we created intellectual property. If people copied or stole our software, we’d be out of business. If it weren’t protected, there’d be no incentive for us to make new software or product designs. If protection of intellectual property begins to disappear, creative companies will disappear or never get started. But there’s a simpler reason: It’s wrong to steal. It hurts other people. And it hurts your own character.

— Steve Jobs, as quoted by Walter Isaacson