Apple Files Lawsuit Against OpenAI over Trade Secrets Theft

Apple has launched a lawsuit against ChatGPT parent OpenAI and two of the iPhone maker’s former employees. The company alleged that its two employees stole trade secrets on behalf of OpenAI.

The complaint names the AI company and two former Apple employees, Chang Liu and Tang Yew Tan, as defendants. Both of the individuals subsequently took roles at OpenAI. Apple claims an investigation uncovered a pattern of theft of its trade secrets by OpenAI employees who had previously worked for the device company. It stated it raised initial concerns with the AI player during the probe but did not receive a response.

Among the strongly worded accusations in the lengthy filing, Apple asserted the alleged theft of confidential information means OpenAI’s nascent hardware business now rests on the shakiest of foundations, rotten to its core by its illegal reliance on misappropriated trade secrets. OpenAI stated that it had no interest in other companies’ trade secrets and is focused on building its own technology. In its submission, Apple argued it was left with no choice but to bring the action due to the evidence uncovered and demanded the case go to a jury trial.