Apple vs. Meta Platforms: Which "Magnificent Seven" Giant Has the Stronger Artificial Intelligence (AI) Growth Engine?

The article argues that Apple and Meta Platforms are both lagging in the AI race, but for different reasons. Apple has invested relatively little in AI infrastructure and is relying on partners like Alphabet’s Gemini to power future device features, leaving it behind peers that have already built out AI capabilities. Meta, by contrast, has spent heavily on AI computing and model development, but the monetization payoff has been limited so far. The piece says Meta’s AI work is helping its advertising business, but not enough to offset the huge costs of its superintelligence ambitions. The market is effectively rewarding Apple for restraint and penalizing Meta for weak returns, with Meta trading at roughly half Apple’s valuation multiple. Overall, the article suggests Apple’s upside depends on launching a successful AI subscription product, while Meta could benefit most if it turns AI into a paid consumer service. The tone is cautious, with a slight preference for Meta if forced to choose between the two stocks.