Apple files trade secrets lawsuit against OpenAI

An eight-year Apple veteran allegedly kept a company laptop and downloaded confidential files on unreleased hardware after jumping to OpenAI's growing hardware division

Apple has sued OpenAI, alleging the AI company misappropriated trade secrets by hiring former Apple employees and encouraging them to disclose confidential information to support its hardware ambitions.

In response, OpenAI denied any interest in Apple’s proprietary information and said it is reviewing the lawsuit.

The lawsuit claims OpenAI recruited Apple employees who brought confidential product designs, engineering processes, supplier information, and other proprietary materials with them. Apple also alleges OpenAI encouraged job candidates still employed by Apple to share sensitive information during interviews.

The complaint names OpenAI Chief Hardware Officer Tang Yew Tan and former Apple employee Chang Liu, accusing the latter of downloading confidential hardware files before leaving the company.

The legal action marks a dramatic shift in relations between the two companies, which partnered in 2024 to integrate ChatGPT into Apple’s operating systems. Tensions reportedly escalated after OpenAI acquired former Apple designer Jony Ive’s hardware startup, io Products, for $6.4 billion as part of its push into AI hardware.

Apple is seeking damages and a court order preventing OpenAI from using or possessing its alleged trade secrets.

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