This matter seems quite serious.
Article Summary:
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that former employees stole trade secrets and provided them to OpenAI.
Apple claims that former employees, including Tony Tan, the former head of iPhone and Apple Watch design, and Chang Liu, a senior systems electrical engineer, leaked confidential information about Apple's unreleased technology, processes, and products after moving to OpenAI.
It is reported that this information leak occurred during the transition of personnel involved in OpenAI's hardware business, led by Apple alumnus designer Jony Ive. Apple had raised the issue with OpenAI in February but received no response, leading them to file a lawsuit. They emphasize that this case is just the tip of the iceberg.
> OpenAI reportedly also educated new hires on how to avoid investigations when leaving Apple. For example, Tan warned against disclosing his employment at OpenAI to Apple in order to stay there as long as possible.
> Apple claims that it discovered a pattern of OpenAI hires sending confidential information to themselves via email when leaving the company.
> OpenAI is accused of using confidential Apple hardware information when approaching Apple suppliers and deceiving a company into using "specific trade secret metal finishing techniques" on OpenAI devices, making it appear as if they had Apple's approval.
> Liu is alleged to have downloaded dozens of confidential Apple documents while working at OpenAI, using vulnerabilities in his company-issued laptop even after leaving Apple.
▶ Original Source: https://9to5mac.com/2026/07/10/apple-sues-openai-trade-secret-theft/
