US FTC airs concerns over allegations that Apple News suppresses right-wing content

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has expressed serious concerns regarding claims that Apple is censoring conservative viewpoints on its Apple News platform. In a letter addressed to Apple CEO Tim Cook, FTC chair Andrew Ferguson highlighted reports from the Media Research Center, a conservative think tank, which accused Apple of failing to feature right-leaning sources within the top 20 articles displayed in the Apple News feed. Ferguson's correspondence emphasizes the gravity of these allegations, stating, "These reports raise serious questions about whether Apple News is acting in accordance with its terms of service and its representations to consumers. I abhor and condemn any attempt to censor content for ideological reasons." While acknowledging that the FTC lacks the authority to mandate Apple’s political stance in news curation, Ferguson pointed out that if the company's practices contradict its terms of service or the reasonable expectations of users, it could potentially violate the FTC Act. Support for Ferguson's concerns came from Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, who echoed the sentiment by asserting, "Apple has no right to suppress conservative viewpoints in violation of the FTC Act." Ferguson has urged Apple to undertake a thorough review of its terms of service to ensure that the content presented on Apple News aligns with its stated policies and to take prompt corrective measures if discrepancies are found. This letter was sent shortly after former President Donald Trump shared the Media Research Center report on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump has consistently accused major tech firms of curbing conservative content, although many have since rolled back measures designed to combat misinformation that were implemented during his earlier presidency. The relationship between Apple and the Trump administration has been complex, fluctuating between cordial and contentious. Trump has criticized Apple for its manufacturing operations in China, but Cook's commitment to invest over $600 billion in U.S. operations has helped mend relations. Notably, Apple managed to avoid anticipated tariffs on smartphones imported from overseas. Last year, the FTC initiated an investigation into what it termed "censorship by tech platforms," inviting public input from individuals who felt their political beliefs were stifled. Ferguson reiterated at the time, "Tech firms should not be bullying their users. This inquiry will help the FTC better understand how these firms may have violated the law by silencing and intimidating Americans for speaking their minds." Apple has not yet responded to requests for comment on this matter.