Apple has sued OpenAI, accusing the company of illegally obtaining trade secrets related to the development of future devices, Bloomberg reports. OpenAI hardware chief Tang Tan, who previously served as Apple’s vice president of product design, was also named as a defendant.
Apple alleges that OpenAI encouraged its employees to hand over information about unreleased devices, including blueprints, technical specifications, component data, and other confidential materials. The lawsuit says former Apple engineer Chang Liu downloaded dozens of internal files before joining OpenAI.
According to Apple, OpenAI also advised employees on how to conceal their move to the new company and retain access to internal systems for as long as possible.
OpenAI rejected the allegations, saying the company “has no interest in other companies’ trade secrets” and is focused on developing its own technologies.
Apple is seeking to prohibit the use of the disputed materials, require the destruction of the confidential information obtained, and force changes to devices under development if they incorporate Apple’s technology. The company is also demanding a jury trial.
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