Apple "ChatGPT Not Allowed"... Email App Rejected

Apple's AI Feature in BlueMail Deemed Inappropriate for Children
Usage Age Should Be Raised to 17 and Above

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

Apple has reportedly rejected approval for an update to an email app utilizing OpenAI's artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot 'ChatGPT,' according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 2nd (local time).

Blix, the developer of the email app 'BlueMail,' stated that Apple blocked the app's update last week, citing concerns that BlueMail's AI features could generate inappropriate content for children.

BlueMail incorporated AI functionality based on ChatGPT that helps users automatically compose new emails using previously written emails and schedules saved in the calendar.

However, Apple's app review team sent a message to BlueMail stating, "The app includes AI-generated content but does not provide content filtering," and demanded that they either raise the minimum age rating to 17+ or include content filtering features. Currently, BlueMail is available for users aged 4 and above.

WSJ commented that Apple's attempt to manage generative AI content by imposing age restrictions demonstrates that big tech companies are closely monitoring the risks associated with AI.

However, Ben Volack, co-founder of Blix, the developer of BlueMail, countered that BlueMail already has content filtering features and that Apple's demands are unfair.

He pointed out, "Many other apps advertising similar functions to ChatGPT do not have age restrictions," and added, "If we raise the minimum age rating, distribution to new users could be limited."

According to WSJ, Blix previously filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple in 2019 after Apple removed its software, which allowed app signing without providing personal information, from the App Store.