OpenAI Claims Ex-Employee Leaked Device Files to Apple in Trade Secret Suit

OpenAI filed new court documents alleging that a former employee leaked highly confidential files about an unreleased device to Apple. The artificial intelligence company claims the individual sent more than one hundred sensitive documents to personal accounts on June 2, 2026, which was his final day at the company.

These filings mark a significant escalation in the ongoing trade secret lawsuit between the two technology giants. OpenAI asserts that the former worker transferred detailed images, engineering data, and manufacturing specifications for at least one unreleased product. The materials also included supplier information, project files, and standards for cosmetic finishes and hardware sealing.

Legal Context and Allegations

The accused employee joined OpenAI from Apple, worked there for six months, and has now returned to Apple. OpenAI alleges that this individual made a presentation about the company’s product plans to Apple’s senior leadership. According to the filing, this briefing included Apple’s vice president of operations in Asia. OpenAI writes that the presentation appears to have happened months ago.

OpenAI expressed concern that its confidential information is now circulating within Apple. The company fears that Apple engineers could use this data to shape upcoming AI-enabled products. OpenAI stated it has raised these issues directly with Apple but has not received assurances that the iPhone maker is not in possession of or using the trade secrets.

Apple's Response and Court Proceedings

Apple told Reuters that it hasn’t found any evidence to support OpenAI’s claims. The company stated it has policies and procedures in place to ensure new employees do not use confidential information from previous employers. This dispute follows Apple’s July lawsuit accusing OpenAI of stealing trade secrets.

Apple previously accused former employees Chang Liu and Tang Tan of stealing secrets to benefit OpenAI. In August, Apple revealed what it called shocking evidence from an early forensic analysis of a laptop used by a former engineer. OpenAI has described the lawsuit as careless and aggressive, stating it does not want Apple’s trade secrets.

Judge Edward Davila is overseeing the case and said he is highly likely to grant a preliminary injunction. This order would prohibit OpenAI from using Apple’s allegedly stolen trade secrets. The court partially granted Apple’s request for expedited discovery yesterday, as Threat Times reported on October 14, 2026.

OpenAI has up to two weeks to hand over forensic evidence and interview materials. Chang Liu, Tang Tan, and Alyssa Peng will need to sit for depositions after Apple receives the requested information. OpenAI asked the court for permission to investigate further and pursue counterclaims if necessary.

What should you do?

Security professionals should monitor this case for insights into corporate espionage tactics involving hardware design data. Organizations should review their policies regarding employee departures and the handling of confidential information. Companies must ensure that former employees cannot access sensitive files after leaving.

What to do and how to stay safe: OpenAI

• Review exit interview procedures to ensure all company devices and data access are revoked immediately upon termination.
• Audit data loss prevention logs for unusual transfers of large files to personal accounts during the final days of employment.
• Verify that non-disclosure agreements and trade secret protections are clearly communicated and enforced for all new hires.
• Monitor legal filings in related cases for updates on forensic investigation techniques used in trade secret disputes.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

What specific files did OpenAI claim were leaked?

OpenAI alleged the leak included detailed images, engineering data, manufacturing specs, supplier info, and coating reports for an unreleased device.

Did Apple admit to receiving the files?

No, Apple told Reuters it hasn’t found any evidence to support OpenAI’s allegations and has policies against using prior employer data.

What is the current status of the lawsuit?

The court partially granted expedited discovery, and Judge Davila indicated he is likely to grant a preliminary injunction against OpenAI.