FTC Challenges Apple News Over Alleged Political Bias
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently raised concerns regarding Apple News, alleging that the platform systematically promotes content from left-leaning news outlets while suppressing conservative publications. This assertion is based on a study that has been criticized for its methodology and limited scope.
The Study in Question
A watchdog group known as the Media Research Center (MRC) conducted a study by accessing Apple News daily in January at either 8:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m., recording which outlets occupied the top news story slots. The MRC’s leadership comprises individuals with backgrounds in politics and business, and their website features a mix of extreme headlines and silver dollar sales.
The study claimed to use the AllSides Media Bias Chart to determine the political leanings of various outlets. However, it overlooked the presence of right-leaning outlets like Fox News, which are featured in Apple News’ curated sections. Additionally, the study sought content from Breitbart and The Gateway Pundit—outlets that do not publish on Apple News—while acknowledging the presence of right-leaning outlets such as the Daily Mail and New York Post.
The methodology of the study has been called into question. By checking the app only in the morning, the study may have missed content from right-leaning outlets that publish later in the day. For instance, a Fox News story published around 5 p.m. ET was featured in the app but would have been overlooked by the study’s morning checks.
FTC’s Response
Citing the MRC’s study, FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, appointed by former President Trump, sent a letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook expressing concerns that Apple News may be violating Section 5 of the FTC Act. This section prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices, including material misrepresentations and omissions. Ferguson argued that if Apple claims neutrality in its terms of service, the report suggests otherwise.
Ferguson stated, Today I sent a letter to Tim Cook expressing my concerns about allegations that Apple News has, unbeknownst to its users, systematically promoted news articles from left-wing news outlets and suppressed content from conservative publications.
Apple’s Editorial Practices
Apple News employs both human curators and algorithmic feeds to present content. The platform aims to represent diverse political views while avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation and filter bubbles. Apple News Editor-in-Chief Lauren Kern has emphasized the importance of accuracy over speed, stating, Misinformation can come out so quickly and spread so rapidly, and that’s something that we take pride in not allowing to happen. Our mantra is that it’s better to be accurate than first.
The platform’s editorial team selects stories that align with current global discussions. For example, during periods of heightened political activity, Apple News has featured stories from various outlets, including right-leaning ones like Fox News and The Wall Street Journal. The Politics tab within the app also prominently features stories from a range of publications, ensuring a balanced representation of viewpoints.
User Customization and Control
Apple News offers users the ability to customize their news feed. By using features like thumbs up and thumbs down, bookmarking stories, and blocking entire channels, users can tailor the content they see. For those who prefer to view only publications they follow and remove Apple’s editorial content, there’s an option to restrict stories in the Today view. This can be done by navigating to the Settings app, selecting Apple News, and toggling Restrict Stories in Today.
If users are dissatisfied with Apple News’ offerings, they have the option to use other news aggregators and RSS apps available in the App Store. Apple does not mandate the use of its news app, and it can be easily removed from devices.
Conclusion
The FTC’s concerns about Apple News’ alleged political bias are based on a study with questionable methodology and limited scope. Apple maintains that its editorial practices aim to provide accurate and diverse content, allowing users to customize their news experience. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond to the FTC’s allegations and whether any changes will be implemented to address these concerns.
