In an internal document obtained by the Wall Street Journal, it has been revealed that Apple, the tech giant known for its iPhone development, has imposed restrictions on the usage of external AI chatbots, including Microsoft-backed ChatGPT. The company is concerned about potential data breaches and the exposure of confidential information by its employees. The ban also extends to GitHub's AI tool Copilot, which is owned by Microsoft and automates software code writing.
The decision to restrict the usage of these AI tools comes as Apple is actively developing its own AI technology. The company aims to safeguard sensitive data and maintain control over its proprietary AI systems. It is worth noting that Apple recently launched the ChatGPT app for iOS on May 18, making it available to users in the United States and planning expansion to other countries in the near future. An Android version of the app is also anticipated.
Apple is not alone in implementing such restrictions. Samsung, another major tech company, issued a memo to its employees on May 2, banning the use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. This policy was prompted by an incident involving the uploading of sensitive code by Samsung staff. The company warned employees not to upload any confidential company information and stated that violating this policy could result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment.
Several other prominent companies, such as JPMorgan, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup, have also prohibited the internal usage of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Interestingly, many of these companies are simultaneously working on developing their own AI applications. Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, announced earlier in May that the company intends to integrate AI technology into all its products.
Overall, these restrictions reflect the growing concerns among major corporations about potential data security risks associated with external AI chatbots. By developing their proprietary AI systems, these companies aim to ensure better control over their sensitive information and maintain a higher level of security.
