Apple Sues OpenAI: Trade Secrets & Stolen Hardware Plans

Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, its hardware subsidiary io Products, and two former Apple employees. Apple claims they orchestrated a scheme to steal trade secrets for OpenAI's expansion into consumer hardware. This marks a significant shift for companies that were partners just two years prior. One key allegation involves former senior systems electrical engineer Chang Liu. He reportedly left Apple for OpenAI in January 2026 but did not return his work laptop. Apple states Liu then used an authentication bug to access Apple's internal network. He allegedly downloaded confidential files, including details on unreleased products, engineering presentations, and technical specifications. Apple asserts that OpenAI's new hardware business relies on misappropriated trade secrets. This legal battle could reshape the future of AI and consumer hardware development.