Apple Card Battles Bias Blasts

These days, “big tech” is held in about as much esteem by the general public as lawyers, members of Congress, and the colleague who empties the coffee but doesn’t make a new pot.

The likes of Google, Amazon, and Facebook are often pilloried by the media and consumers (and dragged in front of elected officials) for misusing data, invading privacy, and hindering democracy.

But one big tech name that seemed to stay above the fray was Apple — ah, sainted, hallowed Apple, whose users defend the company’s products with the zeal of a fringe religious cult. (Remember when Tim Cook condescendingly attacked other tech companies over data privacy?) 

Well, sainted Apple has got a bit of mud on its shirt now, after allegations that its new Apple Card may use credit scoring algorithms that promote gender bias. 

Goldman Sachs, which powers Apple Card (despite Apple’s marketing that the card was created by “not a bank”), said it would review the algorithms it uses. But since Apple’s name and brand is front and center on this product, they must accept a large portion of the blame.