Elon Musk's Reaction to iOS 26 One Year After Threatening iPhone Ban at His Companies Due to iOS 18

In the fast-moving world of tech, opinions can shift as rapidly as the software itself. This has been demonstrated by none other than Elon Musk, who a year ago declared a total ban on Apple devices at his companies due to concerns over security risks related to iOS 18. Fast forward 12 months, and Musk's reaction to Apple’s newly unveiled iOS 26 is markedly different, demonstrating a more positive outlook towards Apple’s latest mobile operating system.

Musk’s vehement opposition to iOS 18 started when it was revealed that Apple intended to integrate OpenAI's ChatGPT directly into its operating system. Musk, who had long been a critic of OpenAI, expressed concern over the company’s ability to access sensitive data, fearing that Apple might unknowingly or unwillingly hand over user information to the AI model.

Musk's mistrust in OpenAI was well-known, stemming from the fact that he was one of its original co-founders but later stepped away from the organization due to disagreements with its leadership and direction.

In response to Apple's potential integration of OpenAI's technology, Musk didn't mince words. He stated publicly that any Apple device with the new iOS 18 would be banned from Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink campuses. “If Apple integrates OpenAI at the OS level, then Apple devices will be banned at my companies,” Musk wrote on X (formerly Twitter), his social media platform.

His stance was unwavering, even going so far as to suggest that visitors would have to check their Apple devices at the door, where they would be stored inside a Faraday cage to ensure no data could be transmitted from the device.

Musk's concerns centered around privacy and data security, particularly the idea that Apple’s collaboration with OpenAI could expose user information without the user’s explicit consent. This concern was exacerbated by his broader apprehension about how AI models, like ChatGPT, could access and leverage private data for profit, a fear that Musk had been vocal about for years.

Despite his strong stance on iOS 18, Elon Musk’s recent reaction to iOS 26 reveals a surprising shift in his views on Apple’s mobile ecosystem. At Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2025, the company introduced iOS 26, which included a host of new features aimed at enhancing the user experience.

Most notably, iOS 26 brought a complete redesign featuring what Apple dubbed the ‘Liquid Glass’ interface, with translucent UI elements and dynamic motion effects that promise to offer a more immersive and visually pleasing experience.

Alongside the visual enhancements, iOS 26 boasts significant upgrades to Apple’s AI-powered systems, including features like Live Translation and an even more integrated approach to Apple Intelligence. Apple’s new AI enhancements are aimed at making devices more intuitive and responsive to users' needs, offering a new level of interaction between the user and their devices.

Despite his previous opposition, Musk's reaction to iOS 26 was succinct yet positive. In response to a post by Apple CEO Tim Cook showcasing the new interface and features, Musk reportedly commented, “Cool.” This brief, but telling response, is in stark contrast to his earlier criticisms and demonstrates a significant shift in his views toward Apple’s technological advancements.

While Musk did not offer further commentary on what specifically impressed him about iOS 26, it is clear that he was impressed with the design and technological enhancements featured in the new update. The sleek, modern look of iOS 26, combined with the AI-driven improvements, seems to have captured Musk's attention, indicating that he sees potential in Apple's latest offering.

So, what caused Musk to soften his stance on Apple’s mobile operating system? One potential reason is the technological advancements that have been made in iOS 26, particularly in AI and security. The integration of more advanced AI capabilities, like Live Translation, and a more robust approach to Apple Intelligence may align more closely with Musk’s vision of a more connected and intelligent world.

Musk, a staunch advocate for AI development, has always been interested in technologies that push the boundaries of innovation, and iOS 26 seems to have impressed him in this regard.

Another factor may be Apple's commitment to user privacy, which Musk has repeatedly emphasized as a critical concern. While Apple’s decision to integrate OpenAI’s technology into iOS 18 was seen as a potential violation of user privacy, the company has continued to bolster its privacy features in subsequent updates.

It's possible that the changes made in iOS 26 have assuaged some of Musk’s previous concerns, especially if they reflect a stronger commitment to protecting user data in the face of increasing AI capabilities.

Additionally, Apple’s continued growth and success in the tech world may have also played a role in Musk’s shift. As CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X, Musk is known for his strategic vision and ability to recognize the potential of emerging technologies.

Given Apple’s status as one of the world’s most valuable companies, Musk’s positive reaction to iOS 26 may indicate his recognition of the importance of Apple’s innovations and their potential to shape the future of technology.

With iOS 26 now in the hands of developers, it remains to be seen how Musk and his companies will interact with Apple's mobile devices moving forward. Musk's comments suggest a potential thawing in his relationship with Apple, but it’s unclear whether his companies will officially lift the ban on Apple devices or if they will continue to maintain strict policies around their usage.

What is certain, however, is that iOS 26 represents a new chapter in Apple’s quest to dominate the mobile operating system market. With its AI-powered capabilities, redesigned interface, and focus on user experience, iOS 26 sets a new standard for what users can expect from their smartphones and other devices.

Musk’s seemingly positive reaction to these advancements signals that, despite the tensions of the past, he recognizes the value in what Apple is creating.

In the coming months, as iOS 26 becomes widely available, the tech world will be watching closely to see if Musk’s newfound appreciation for Apple translates into a shift in policy at Tesla, SpaceX, and X. If his companies choose to embrace iOS 26, it could mark the beginning of a new era of collaboration between two of the biggest names in the tech industry.

Elon Musk’s change in attitude towards Apple and its iOS 26 operating system is both surprising and telling. After a year of vehement opposition, Musk’s recent positive remarks about iOS 26 suggest that he sees value in the updates Apple has made. With its sleek new design, enhanced AI features, and focus on security and user experience, iOS 26 seems to have won Musk’s approval—at least for now.

The shift in Musk’s stance could pave the way for a more collaborative future between Apple and Musk’s various ventures, but only time will tell if the ban on Apple devices at Musk’s companies will be lifted or remain in place. As always, in the world of tech, things are never static, and the next twist in this story could be just around the corner.