Apple bans employees from using ChatGPT — here's why

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Apple has restricted its workers from using ChatGPT and other AI chatbots

Apple Park campus
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Apple has banned its employees from using ChatGPT and other AI platforms over fears its own AI plans could be leaked.

According to, ironically, an internal leaked document obtained by the Wall Street Journal, Apple has restricted all use of ChatGPT, Google Bard, and similar large language models (LLMs) for employees whilst it develops similar technology. 

Apple employees have also been advised to not use Microsoft’s GitHub Copilot, which developers can use to automate code writing, over fears of leaked confidential data.

There may be some substance to Apple's concerns. ChatGPT, a Microsoft-supported platform, collects data from users to improve its AI models. But a bug discovered in March allowed users to view the chat history of others, prompting ChatGPT to add the option for users to turn off their chat history and not contribute to AI training. 

Obviously, if Apple engineers use ChatGPT, there is no guarantee their codes will not leak or be used by third-party developers. 

Siri tipped for AI infusion

Apple HomePod 2 top

(Image credit: Future)

While Apple seems slow to enter the AI race, a recent discovery by 9to5Mac.com shows it is working on its own AI project. The project nicknamed “Bobcat” has been discovered in the tvOS 16.4 beta and shows Apple testing out new language capabilities for Siri. 

The project, which is allegedly being led by John Giannandrea (who Apple hired from Google in 2018) aims to make Siri better understand users and respond more naturally. 

So, while current plans don’t seem to include AI technology to rival the likes of ChatGPT, they do want to make Siri more conversational and allow it to perform tasks outside of the narrow conditions that it’s currently been programmed for.

It’s also important to note that under Giannandrea, Apple has acquired a number of artificial intelligence startups. However, it’s unclear when and how Apple plan to make its current AI developments available to the public. 

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Rachael Penn
Rachael Penn
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Rachael has a keen interest in all things sleep, including her expert knowledge on mattress cleaning, providing readers with the best hacks and tips to keep their beds clean, as well as trying out the latest viral cleaning products. Rachael also reports on leading mattress brands such as Helix, Saatva and Nectar, writing articles designed to help readers understand what they need from a new bed. She also enjoys reviewing home, travel and tech gadgets, especially anything that has been designed to make life easier like smart home gadgets. During the last 15 years, Rachael has contributed to various publications including Tom’s Guide, Creative Bloq, The Independent, The Spectator, Daily Express and more.