Apple has initiated legal action against OpenAI in a United States federal court, accusing the company of illegally acquiring and using confidential trade secrets from Apple. These trade secrets are related to Apple’s hardware development, manufacturing methods, and supply chain operations. Apple alleges that OpenAI gained an unfair advantage in developing its own consumer AI hardware products by utilizing proprietary information shared by former Apple employees who joined OpenAI.
The lawsuit outlines several allegations, including claims that OpenAI accessed confidential data through ex-Apple employees, sought out Apple suppliers, and attempted to gather sensitive information during recruitment processes. Among those named in the complaint are former Apple executives and engineers, such as Chang Liu, who is accused of not returning an Apple-issued work laptop after his departure. Additionally, Tang Yew Tan, a former senior Apple executive who later became OpenAI’s Chief Hardware Officer, is alleged to have engaged in discussions with OpenAI affiliates and Apple suppliers before leaving the company.
Apple argues that OpenAI and related entities have deliberately targeted its confidential technology, manufacturing knowledge, product development processes, and supply chain partnerships to hasten their move into the consumer AI hardware sector. The company further claims that over 400 former Apple employees are now employed at OpenAI, and despite raising concerns with OpenAI directly, Apple alleges that it received no response.
In response to what it describes as willful and malicious misappropriation of its confidential business information, Apple is seeking both preliminary and permanent injunctions from the court to stop the alleged use of its trade secrets. Additionally, Apple is pursuing financial compensation for damages. As of now, OpenAI has not issued a public response to these allegations.