Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI alleging that the company utilized trade secrets from several former employees to develop new hardware.
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that the artificial intelligence company utilized trade secrets from several former employees to develop its upcoming consumer hardware. The complaint specifically highlights the work of Tang Yew Tan and Chang Liu, who transitioned from Apple to OpenAI to lead hardware and engineering efforts. While OpenAI has denied the allegations, Apple believes the current dispute represents only the "tip of the iceberg." To prepare for potential litigation, Apple issued legal preservation letters to approximately 40 former employees, requesting they save all relevant documents and communications. This move serves as a warning that Apple is closely monitoring how its former staff utilize confidential information. The lawsuit may also impact other notable figures, such as former Apple design chief Jony Ive, who is currently developing AI gadgets for OpenAI. If the case proceeds to trial, it could reveal secret hardware designs before OpenAI is ready for an official launch.