In a stunning development that has reverberated throughout the tech industry, Elon Musk has launched a fresh attack on Apple, accusing the tech giant of prioritizing profit over innovation. The longstanding rivalry between Musk, the CEO of Tesla, and Apple CEO Tim Cook has escalated, with Musk’s latest allegations suggesting that Apple has lost its innovative edge since the passing of its co-founder, Steve Jobs.
Musk’s grievances trace back to a 2020 incident when he sought a meeting with Cook to propose a merger between Tesla and Apple, only to be rejected. Since then, their relationship has soured, with Musk openly criticizing Apple’s software quality and high App Store fees, labeling them a “hidden 30% tax on the internet.” He expressed concern over Apple’s declining software standards, citing personal frustrations with recent iPhone updates that he claimed broke fundamental features.
Apple has responded to Musk’s provocations by pausing its advertising on Twitter, a platform Musk acquired last year. The withdrawal of advertisements, which is crucial for Twitter’s revenue, signals a potential fallout between the two tech titans. Musk has suggested that if Apple and Google proceed with banning Twitter from their app stores, he may be forced to create an alternative smartphone to challenge their dominance.
Amid this tumultuous exchange, speculation is growing about Tesla’s entry into the smartphone market. Reports indicate that a team is already working on the Tesla Model PI phone, which purportedly boasts advanced features, including solar charging capabilities and superior specifications compared to the latest iPhone.
As tensions mount, both Musk and Cook face pivotal moments in their respective companies. With Musk’s ambitions in the automotive industry intensifying and Apple’s rumored plans to release an electric vehicle, the battle between these two tech giants is set to redefine the landscape of innovation and competition in the coming years. Only time will reveal who will emerge victorious in this escalating conflict.