Meta’s CEO Voices Concerns About Apple’s AirPods
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), has publicly criticized Apple’s proprietary AirPods protocol. During a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Podcast, he expressed his belief that the protocol should be accessible to competing companies to foster a more open tech ecosystem.
The Joe Rogan Podcast Discussion
In episode 2255 of the Joe Rogan Podcast, Zuckerberg raised significant concerns about Apple’s exclusive AirPods protocol. He characterized the seamless connectivity that AirPods enjoy with iPhones as an unfair advantage that restricts competition. Zuckerberg’s critique comes at a crucial time, as both Meta and Apple are heavily invested in developing new technologies, particularly in the realm of smart glasses.
Criticism of Apple’s Security Claims
Zuckerberg dismissed Apple’s justifications regarding privacy and security risks linked to third-party integrations. He argued that rather than using these concerns to restrict access, a more secure protocol could be established. The CEO shared specific challenges Meta faced when attempting to integrate its Ray-Ban Meta Glasses with iPhones, noting that these difficulties arose from Apple’s refusal to share its connectivity protocol.
Technical Limitations and Security Issues
During the podcast, Zuckerberg pointed out that Apple exploits its control over the AirPods protocol’s encryption standards. He mentioned that one aspect of the protocol was not encrypted, which he argued allows Apple to maintain its exclusivity. “One of the protocols that they used they basically didn’t encrypt it,” he said, clearly highlighting his frustrations with Apple’s approach to security.
Apple’s Response and Zuckerberg’s Perspective
In response to critiques about the potential risks of allowing third-party connections, Apple stated that such integrations could compromise security. Zuckerberg countered this, asserting that the insecurity is rooted in Apple’s own design decisions. He remarked, “It’s insecure because you didn’t build any security into it,” suggesting that Apple has the capacity to address these issues but chooses not to.
Calls for Open Access to Improve Competition
In his statements, Zuckerberg urged Apple to prioritize consumer convenience and innovation by enabling third-party devices to connect with their ecosystem. He believes this move would facilitate a more competitive environment that benefits consumers and drives technological advancements within the industry.
The Context of Increasing Competition
This discussion arises as both Meta and Apple ramp up their endeavors in the smart glasses market. Reports earlier this year indicated that Meta was planning to launch a variant of its smart glasses priced at $1,000, aimed at challenging Apple’s ambitions in augmented reality. These new glasses are expected to feature innovative capabilities like a built-in screen and hand-gesture controls, reflecting a significant step in Meta’s strategy to capture market share against rivals.
Apple’s Strategy and Future Developments
In the competitive landscape, Apple is not standing still. A report released in May 2025 suggested that Apple was developing new chips designed to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses. This imminent competition between the tech giants emphasizes the necessity for fair competition, as it can lead to enhanced innovation and improved products for consumers across the board.
Stock Market Responses
Regarding stock performance, shares of Meta have seen a 6.05% increase year-to-date, while Apple has faced a decline, with a decrease of 17.13%. This shift in stock trends could reflect broader sentiments in the market about each company’s strategic direction and competitive positioning.
Conclusion
The ongoing discourse about the AirPods protocol illustrates significant concerns about the dynamics of competition and innovation in the tech industry. As leading companies like Meta and Apple continue to innovate in smart technology, the push for more open access and fair competition could become essential to ensuring a thriving ecosystem that benefits consumers. The criticisms raised by Zuckerberg reflect deeper issues surrounding proprietary technology and the ongoing battle for dominance in the future of connected devices.
