Apple has filed a lawsuit accusing OpenAI of stealing trade secrets through former employees as the ChatGPT developer expands into hardware. The company is seeking damages and an injunction, while OpenAI rejects the allegations.

According to the complaint, OpenAI hired several former Apple employees who allegedly transferred confidential information related to unreleased products, suppliers, and internal engineering processes.

Apple further claims OpenAI encouraged current Apple employees interviewing for jobs to bring confidential materials to interviews. Among those named are OpenAI hardware chief Tang Yew Tan and former Apple engineer Chang Liu.

The lawsuit comes after the companies’ relationship deteriorated despite their 2024 partnership to integrate ChatGPT into Apple devices. Apple argues OpenAI’s acquisition of Jony Ive’s startup io Products signaled a move into hardware that relied on improperly obtained Apple intellectual property.

OpenAI said it is reviewing the complaint and denied seeking competitors’ trade secrets. Apple said protecting its intellectual property is essential and is asking the court to stop OpenAI from using any confidential information allegedly obtained.