Apple has initiated legal action against OpenAI, claiming on July 10, 2026, that former employees of Apple engaged in a systematic theft of trade secrets to bolster OpenAI's hardware initiatives. The lawsuit also implicates IO Products, a company acquired by OpenAI in 2025, along with specific individuals, including Tang Tan and Chang Liu.
Details of the Allegations Against OpenAI
According to Apple's complaint, there is substantial evidence suggesting that OpenAI employees, previously working at Apple, misappropriated confidential information. Liu is accused of accessing Apple’s systems after his departure and downloading sensitive files related to unreleased products, engineering presentations, and proprietary data.
Apple's spokesperson stated, "At Apple, our teams are constantly developing breakthrough technologies... protecting their work and intellectual property is something we take very seriously." The company alleges that Liu instructed a colleague on how to copy confidential files and evade detection by Apple’s security team.
Systematic Theft of Trade Secrets
The lawsuit claims that Tang has been methodically utilizing Apple’s confidential information for the benefit of OpenAI. This includes emailing sensitive information about Apple suppliers prior to his departure and soliciting confidential data during interviews with Apple employees.
Apple contends that OpenAI is actively targeting its partner network and supply chain. The company asserts that OpenAI has advised departing Apple employees to inform them if they are approached to sign any documents, further emphasizing the alleged systematic effort to acquire Apple’s trade secrets.
OpenAI's Response and Future Implications
In response to the allegations, OpenAI's Drew Pusateri stated, "We have no interest in other companies’ trade secrets. We remain focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere." Apple expressed concerns to OpenAI in February but claims it received no response.
The lawsuit raises questions about OpenAI’s ability to launch its first hardware product next year, suggesting that it may rely on Apple’s intellectual property. Apple’s legal action indicates that it will vigorously protect its innovations and trade secrets.
- Apple alleges a pattern of theft by former employees at OpenAI.
- Specific individuals named include Tang Tan and Chang Liu.
- OpenAI's first hardware product is anticipated to launch next year.
- Apple claims over 400 former employees are now at OpenAI.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by The Verge. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
