Apple has presented new evidence in its ongoing trade secrets lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging a former Apple engineer downloaded and used confidential circuit schematics for work at the AI company. The iPhone maker submitted a filing on Monday detailing findings from a forensic examination of a MacBook laptop previously used by Chang Liu, a former senior system electrical engineer at Apple who left for OpenAI. Apple is seeking to expedite discovery in the case, arguing this new information demonstrates active use of stolen trade secrets and potential destruction of evidence.
The newly submitted evidence centers on Liu's actions after leaving Apple. According to the filing, Liu downloaded a confidential Apple circuit schematic in March 2026, two months after departing the company. Apple claims Liu then used this schematic to run simulations using LTspice, an electrical engineering tool, and trained an AI agent to operate the software. The filing also states that Liu and others at OpenAI were aware of his unauthorized access to Apple's third-party cloud storage. Furthermore, Apple alleges that upon learning of Apple's internal investigation, Liu instructed an OpenAI colleague to destroy evidence, with the colleague confirming they would comply. Apple also noted that Liu used a tool at OpenAI that shares the same name as an internal Apple engineering application.
Apple initially filed its lawsuit against OpenAI in July, accusing former employees of stealing trade secrets and proprietary information. The company has since sought an injunction to prevent OpenAI from using its trade secrets and requested expedited discovery to obtain evidence quickly. OpenAI has previously asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, labeling Apple's accusations as "meritless" and claiming the company is attempting to stifle competition. OpenAI has also described Apple's charges as "careless, aggressive and oddly personal."
The MacBook in question was provided to Apple by OpenAI on August 21 as part of the legal proceedings. Apple asserts that the forensic analysis of this laptop provides "shocking evidence" that its trade secrets are not only in active use but that efforts are underway to conceal this activity. The company argues that any delay in discovery risks the disappearance of crucial evidence. Apple's lawsuit initially named two former employees, Chang Liu and Tang Yew Tan, but has since expanded to include allegations against 11 former employees.
Apple's push for expedited discovery aims to secure early document production and depositions from key OpenAI personnel. The company fears that if the case proceeds without urgency, critical evidence detailing the extent of stolen secrets could be lost permanently. OpenAI has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the latest filing.