Concerns Raised Over Alleged Bias in Apple News

Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) has reached out to Apple CEO Tim Cook, seeking clarity on claims of political bias associated with the Apple News app.

In a letter to Cook, Blackburn voiced her worries about allegations suggesting that Apple News is systematically limiting news coverage from conservative outlets while prioritizing liberal stories. She emphasized the importance of providing users with diverse political viewpoints, noting that many Americans depend on apps like Apple News for information. “Denying consumers that ability through algorithmic promotion and editorial bias is a disservice,” Blackburn stated.

Blackburn, who chairs the Consumer Protection, Technology, and Data Privacy Subcommittee, referenced findings from the Media Research Center. This study indicated that, during January, Apple News failed to include any content from right-leaning sources, in contrast to 440 pieces from left-leaning sources.

“Since Apple News is pre-installed on Apple devices and ranks as a leading news application across several countries, we have a duty to present information neutrally, without siding with any political faction,” she added.

Additionally, Blackburn has posed questions to Cook that he needs to respond to by March 4. These include inquiries about how Apple News selects content and whether an internal review of political bias has taken place since these issues emerged.

Apple has yet to comment on Blackburn’s letter.

This follows similar concerns raised by FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, who implied that Apple News might be infringing on Section 5 of the FTC Act, which forbids unfair or misleading practices. He pointed out that, while the First Amendment protects the speech of tech companies, it doesn’t shield them from consumer misrepresentation or conduct considered unfair by regulatory standards.

Earlier reports highlighted that the content on Apple News is curated by a team led by editor-in-chief Lauren Kahn, a former editor at notable publications like New York Magazine. In a past statement, Kahn explained they approached content selection with careful consideration, acknowledging the significant reach of the app in shaping media narratives.

Given the powerful influence of Apple News, it’s worth noting that the app reportedly boasts over 100 million active users across regions including the US, UK, Australia, and Canada.