Apple Accuses OpenAI of Stealing Trade Secrets to Accelerate Hardware Development

Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the company of illegally using confidential data to advance its own hardware projects. The lawsuit alleges that former Apple employees Tan Tang and Chang Liu provided OpenAI with proprietary information about product development, manufacturing processes, and supply chains.

According to Apple, the data breach was not accidental: the company describes OpenAI’s actions as a ‘coordinated effort’ to obtain restricted data. Tang, now OpenAI’s hardware engineering lead, previously worked on key Apple products like the iPhone and Apple Watch. Liu, who joined OpenAI earlier this year, allegedly retained access to sensitive engineering data after leaving Apple.

The lawsuit also targets OpenAI’s plans to develop new AI devices in collaboration with former Apple chief designer Jony Ive. Apple claims these developments rely on knowledge derived from its internal processes rather than independent research. The company is seeking compensation, a ban on using stolen data, and the destruction of all confidential materials.

OpenAI has not yet commented on the allegations. The case could intensify competition in the AI hardware sector, where the race is not only for advanced AI models but also for control over the underlying device technologies.