Apple sues OpenAI, two former employees over trade secret theft

2026-07-10

Overview of lawsuit

On the 10th, Apple filed suit against OpenAI, alleging that as OpenAI pushes ahead with development of a dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) device, it improperly obtained confidential information on Apple's design data and manufacturing technology.

Claims of trade secret theft

On the same day, Apple sued OpenAI and two former employees who moved from Apple to OpenAI in a federal court in California. The complaint says trade secrets related to design data, manufacturing technology and suppliers for products under development were obtained through the hiring process for the two. It also says there were cases in which former employees improperly accessed Apple's internal systems or urged job candidates to bring in data and prototypes.

Relationship between the two companies

OpenAI is developing an AI-specific device with former Apple designer Jony Ive. In 2024, Apple partnered with OpenAI to add AI technology to its iPhone smartphone.

In a statement to Nikkei, Apple said it had found evidence suggesting that a person recently hired by OpenAI had improperly taken confidential information related to unpublished technology and products, and commented that it would take all appropriate measures to protect its intellectual property. No comment was obtained from OpenAI.

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