The Media Research Center (MRC), a conservative watchdog group, has called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to launch a formal investigation into Apple News, citing 'potential unfair and deceptive trade practices and anticompetitive behavior' by the news aggregator, which comes pre-installed on Apple devices [1]. According to a recent MRC study, Apple News featured 620 stories between January 1 and January 31, with 440 originating from left-leaning outlets, 180 from centrist outlets, and none from right-leaning outlets [1]. This data has fueled accusations that Apple News favors liberal publications while ignoring conservative sources [1].
The study prompted FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson to send a letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook, warning that Apple News could be in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices [1]. Following this, MRC President David Bozell sent a letter to Ferguson requesting a probe, alleging that Apple has made materially misleading representations to consumers and news publishers regarding key features and policies of Apple News [1]. Bozell specifically cited issues such as whether users can block specific media outlets, whether outside publishers may apply for inclusion, and whether Apple creates confusion about the diversity of viewpoints in the app [1].
Bozell's letter also highlighted that Apple issued a statement claiming users can tailor the app by following or blocking specific publications or topics, but MRC's subsequent investigation found this claim to be inaccurate. The evidence suggests that users cannot block outlets, and this restriction is a deliberate design feature [1]. Additionally, Bozell noted that while Apple encourages news organizations to apply for inclusion, MRC’s NewsBusters was denied consideration, raising questions about the openness and ideological diversity of Apple News [1].
The allegations have brought renewed scrutiny to Apple’s practices, with potential implications for its compliance with federal competition law, including possible tying or exclusionary practices in preferencing Apple News on Apple devices [1].
CONCLUSION
The MRC's call for an FTC investigation into Apple News centers on alleged deceptive and anticompetitive practices, particularly regarding ideological diversity and publisher inclusion. The controversy has prompted regulatory attention and could impact Apple's reputation and regulatory risk. Market participants should monitor developments as further investigation may affect Apple's news aggregation business and broader competitive practices.