Apple Alleges Broader Trade Secret Theft by Former Employees in Escalating OpenAI Lawsuit

Apple is intensifying its legal battle against OpenAI, seeking a preliminary injunction in its trade secrets case and alleging that more former employees may be involved in the alleged theft. The iPhone maker aims to halt OpenAI's development of AI devices or other products purportedly based on Apple's proprietary technology. In a recent court filing, Apple requests expedited discovery from several parties, including accused OpenAI employees—senior systems engineer Chang Liu and Chief Hardware Officer Tang Yew Tan—as well as OpenAI itself, its foundation, and io, the device startup co-founded by Apple's former lead designer Jony Ive. Apple's ongoing investigation has revealed that 11 additional former Apple employees, beyond Liu and Tan, may have been witnesses or participants in the alleged misconduct. This includes individuals previously named in the original complaint, such as OpenAI employee Yu-Ting Peng. The filing marks a significant escalation, suggesting that Apple has uncovered evidence of broader wrongdoing than initially reported. According to the filing, one former Apple employee reportedly met with Liu and Peng before Peng's interview at OpenAI, discussing confidential information about unannounced Apple products. Another former employee allegedly captured screenshots of sensitive Apple documents related to an unreleased product prior to an OpenAI interview. Additionally, Apple claims that after the lawsuit was filed, multiple former employees now at OpenAI contacted Apple about returning company-issued devices, hinting at further involvement. Apple argues that expedited discovery is justified due to the strong likelihood of additional culprits, and notes that its motion for a preliminary injunction is still pending. OpenAI has publicly responded, dismissing Apple's request as "based on false information and completely unnecessary because we do not have, nor want, any of their trade secrets." The company emphasized its focus on innovation, stating, "We're much more interested in building innovative products and technologies that push the frontier." OpenAI also highlighted earlier errors in Apple's approach, including sending a legal notice to the wrong individual due to confusion between similar surnames. OpenAI further alleged that Apple misrepresented discussions with its general counsel and failed to acknowledge that "residual access" to its systems stemmed from Apple's own security lapses. As of 2026, this case underscores the heightened tensions between tech giants over intellectual property, particularly as generative AI and hardware innovations converge. The outcome could set precedents for how trade secrets are protected in the AI era.

via TechCrunch AI