OpenAI, in a recent federal court filing, alleged that an unnamed former employee, who previously worked at Apple, spent six months at OpenAI, and then returned to Apple, transferred over 100 confidential files related to an unreleased OpenAI device to personal accounts. The company claims these files included detailed images of the unreleased device, engineering and manufacturing data, supplier information, and project files. Some of these files were allegedly transferred on June 2, 2026, which was the employee's final day at OpenAI.
The filing further alleges that this former employee made a presentation regarding OpenAI's product plans to senior Apple leadership, including Apple's vice president of operations in Asia. OpenAI expressed concern that its trade secrets and confidential information are now "circulating inside Apple," potentially influencing Apple's future AI-enabled products. OpenAI pointed to Apple's recent launch of the HomeView smart display as an indicator of Apple's renewed focus on AI products.
These accusations are part of a broader legal conflict between the two technology companies. Apple initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI in July, alleging that OpenAI and two former Apple employees stole trade secrets related to Apple's manufacturing processes and products in development. OpenAI has denied Apple's initial allegations. The current filing by OpenAI does not constitute a counterclaim against Apple directly. Instead, OpenAI requested the court establish a schedule to allow for further investigation and the potential filing of counterclaims at a later date.
Apple has denied OpenAI's claims, stating it has procedures in place to prevent new employees from using confidential information from previous employers and has found no evidence to support OpenAI's allegations. Apple's lawyers also stated in an October 12 letter that phone numbers cited by OpenAI did not match the employee's work number, and no OpenAI files were found on Apple's servers.
During a hearing on Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila indicated a high likelihood of granting Apple's request for a preliminary injunction against OpenAI. Following this, OpenAI voluntarily agreed not to use any trade secrets Apple claims were stolen while the legal proceedings continue. As part of this agreement, OpenAI also committed to collecting forensic images from the devices of 14 employees who may possess Apple's confidential information. The judge will have the authority to enforce this agreement. The larger trade secrets case is tentatively scheduled for trial in October 2027, though OpenAI suggested it could be ready by June 2027.