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Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secret theft
Apple has taken OpenAI to federal court, seeking to stop the AI company from using confidential Apple data and demanding access to hiring records of former Apple employees.
14 Oct 2026 0 reads Compiled with AI
#Apple #OpenAI #trade secrets #San Jose #iPhone #hardware
Apple filed a lawsuit in July 2026 claiming that OpenAI stole trade secrets by hiring former Apple staff who accessed confidential information. The suit names former Apple engineers Tang Tan and Chang Liu, as well as the design firm io Products, accusing them of coordinated misconduct. Apple is asking the court to order OpenAI to stop using any Apple‑originated data and to submit to discovery.
U.S. District Judge Edward Davila granted Apple expedited access to OpenAI’s interview materials, including checklists, guides and private LINE messages between the named former employees. The judge, however, denied Apple’s request to obtain research on metal finishes and power‑management technologies, leaving that request open for a narrower appeal.
Apple’s legal team already won part of the discovery on Tuesday, gaining forensic images of interview summaries and messages, while rejecting other requests that would broaden the scope. The case, which is being heard in San Jose, could delay OpenAI’s plans to launch a new family of hardware devices, including a high‑priced speaker slated for 2027.