The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has raised alarms regarding Apple News, suggesting that the platform is biased towards left-leaning viewpoints while marginalizing conservative perspectives. In a letter addressed to Apple's CEO Tim Cook, FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson highlighted potential legal violations stemming from this alleged bias, although he clarified that the commission lacks authority to compel companies to take a stance on political issues or to report from a specific ideological standpoint. Ferguson's comments suggest a growing scrutiny of major tech platforms and their editorial choices.

Ferguson emphasized that while the FTC does not monitor political bias, any practices that conflict with Apple's terms of service or consumer expectations could breach FTC regulations. The crux of the matter lies in Section 5 of the FTC Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices, including communications that could mislead consumers. Given the significant influence of tech giants like Apple on public discourse, the agency's concerns highlight the intersection of technology, politics, and consumer rights in an evolving media landscape.

Ferguson, a Republican who was appointed to the FTC by former President Joe Biden and became its chairman under President Donald Trump, appears to be leveraging his position to address concerns about fairness and transparency in digital platforms. The implications of this investigation could extend beyond Apple itself, affecting how tech companies curate content and engage with political narratives, ultimately shaping the public's access to diverse viewpoints.