OpenAI alleges ex-employee leaked unreleased device plans to Apple leadership

Key points

• OpenAI alleges a former employee downloaded over 100 confidential files about an unreleased device to a personal account before rejoining Apple.
• The filing claims the employee presented OpenAI’s product plans to senior Apple leadership, including the VP of operations in Asia.
• Apple denies the allegations, stating it has policies to ensure new employees do not use confidential information from previous employers.
• The dispute is part of a broader trade secret lawsuit filed by Apple in July 2026, alleging OpenAI stole trade secrets to develop its own gadgets.
• The case is expected to go to trial in October 2027, though OpenAI has indicated it could be ready as early as June 2027.

Background

This dispute follows Apple’s July 2026 lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that OpenAI stole trade secrets to develop its own AI-enabled devices. OpenAI has denied these claims, stating Apple has not identified any stolen trade secrets. The case involves OpenAI’s acquisition of Jony Ive’s hardware startup and is expected to go to trial by mid-2026, though OpenAI has indicated it could be ready as early as June 2027.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian and CNN both report on OpenAI’s new filing, emphasizing the alleged leak of confidential files and the presentation to Apple leadership. CNN adds that the employee had previously worked at Apple, joined OpenAI for six months, and then returned to Apple. Yahoo Finance focuses on the judge’s order for OpenAI to turn over hiring records in the trade secrets case, highlighting the broader litigation context. All sources agree that Apple denies the allegations and has policies in place to prevent the use of confidential information from previous employers.

Why it matters

This dispute highlights the intense competition between tech giants for AI talent and intellectual property. The alleged leak could have significant implications for Apple’s AI product development and OpenAI’s hardware division. The case also underscores the importance of trade secret protection in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly competing for AI-enabled devices.

What to watch

The case is expected to go to trial in October 2027, though OpenAI has indicated it could be ready as early as June 2027. OpenAI may file a countersuit based on the new claim. The judge has already granted Apple early access to digital files from OpenAI and ordered depositions of three former employees, including two defendants in the case.