Apple files lawsuit against OpenAI for alleged trade secret theft involving former employees

Apple has initiated a federal lawsuit against OpenAI and its employees, accusing them of stealing trade secrets. The complaint, filed on Friday, July 10, 2026, claims that OpenAI gained access to confidential information through the hiring of former Apple workers. This lawsuit marks a significant turning point in the relationship between these two major technology companies.

Details of the Lawsuit Against OpenAI

In its lawsuit, Apple alleges a "pattern of theft" involving its confidential product development information. According to the claims, at least two former Apple employees who joined OpenAI emailed themselves internal documents before leaving the company. Apple's spokesman emphasized that the lawsuit is backed by "significant evidence."

Drew Pusateri, a spokesperson for OpenAI, responded to the allegations by stating, "We have no interest in other companies' trade secrets," and mentioned that the company is focused on creating innovative technology.

Former Apple Employees Involved in the Case

The lawsuit names specific individuals, including Chang Liu, a senior electrical engineer at Apple for eight years, and Tang Yew Tan, who spent 24 years at Apple and is now OpenAI's chief hardware officer. Apple claims these individuals had access to sensitive projects and proprietary manufacturing techniques that could provide OpenAI with insights into Apple's product plans.

Apple also accuses OpenAI of attempting to extract further information from current Apple employees during the hiring process. Allegedly, OpenAI interviewers have encouraged candidates to bring "actual parts" from Apple for a "show and tell" during interviews.

Impact on Apple and OpenAI's Future

Apple argues that OpenAI's alleged misconduct, driven by leadership, undermines the integrity of its nascent hardware business. The lawsuit contends that OpenAI's actions are rooted in a strategy to exploit Apple's confidential information to establish a foothold in the consumer hardware market.

OpenAI is expected to launch its first hardware product, a keyboard designed for its AI tools, soon. Additionally, the company is planning to go public. In light of these developments, Apple is seeking an immediate court order to prevent OpenAI from using any alleged confidential information and is pursuing unspecified monetary damages.