Apple sues OpenAI alleging theft of trade secrets by former employees

Apple’s complaint alleges a ‘pattern of theft’ involving OpenAI employees who formerly worked at Apple, claiming they misappropriated confidential hardware-related files, engineering presentations, technical specifications, and proprietary project data.

The lawsuit names two OpenAI executives: Tang Tan, OpenAI’s chief hardware officer, and Chang Liu, who joined OpenAI in January after leaving Apple. Apple alleges Liu accessed Apple’s systems after his departure, downloaded dozens of confidential files, and instructed a former Apple colleague on how to copy and transfer Apple’s confidential information while avoiding detection.

Apple also accuses OpenAI of targeting its partner network and supply chain, including having an Apple partner perform proprietary, trade secret processes for OpenAI’s benefit. The company claims more than 400 former Apple staffers now work at OpenAI.

Apple states it contacted OpenAI in February to raise concerns but received no response. The lawsuit asserts that OpenAI’s nascent hardware business relies on misappropriated trade secrets, calling its foundation ‘rotten to its core.’

OpenAI spokesperson Drew Pusateri denied interest in other companies’ trade secrets, stating the company remains focused on building innovative technology.