OpenAI Escalates Trade Secret Dispute with Apple Over Unreleased Device

OpenAI has escalated a trade secret dispute with Apple by telling a federal judge that a former OpenAI employee who returned to Apple sent more than 100 confidential files about an unreleased device to personal accounts before leaving. The filing alleges the files included detailed device images, engineering and manufacturing data, and supplier information, and that the same employee later presented OpenAI product plans to senior Apple leaders. Apple responds that it has found no evidence supporting these claims.

■ OpenAI's allegations
- A former OpenAI employee now at Apple allegedly transferred over 100 confidential files about an unreleased device to personal accounts before departure.
- The files allegedly contained device images, engineering and manufacturing data, and supplier information.
- OpenAI claims the employee later showed OpenAI product plans to senior Apple leaders.
- OpenAI says it is concerned its trade secrets may be circulating inside Apple as Apple expands into AI devices.
- OpenAI seeks the ability to investigate and potentially bring counterclaims against Apple.

■ Apple's response
- Apple says it has found no evidence supporting OpenAI's claims.
- Apple states it searched for the specific file identified by OpenAI and did not find it on any Apple systems.
- Apple says OpenAI has not responded to requests for more information.
- Apple describes the filing as an attempt to distract from its own claims that OpenAI employees took confidential information.

The discussion outlines the competing allegations and responses in the ongoing dispute, without resolving the claims. It is suited for viewers following AI industry legal conflicts, trade secret litigation, or Apple's and OpenAI's hardware ambitions. Viewers will gain a concise overview of the positions each company has taken and the issues at stake.