tech
Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secret theft
Apple alleges the misconduct was directed by OpenAI's senior leadership, including a longtime former employee.
TL;DR
- Apple is suing OpenAI for alleged trade secret theft and breach of contract.
- The lawsuit claims OpenAI leadership, including former Apple employee Tang Tan, directed the theft of confidential information.
- Accusations include using Apple's project code names, asking candidates to bring Apple hardware, and coaching employees on evading security.
- OpenAI is rumored to be developing a hardware product that could compete with the iPhone.
- Former Apple designer Jony Ive's startup io was acquired by OpenAI last year.
- Another former Apple employee, Chang Liu, is accused of downloading confidential technical documents and sharing information with other candidates.
- Apple alleges OpenAI and its partners used stolen information for OpenAI's hardware product development.
- Apple seeks a court order to bar OpenAI from using its trade secrets and to preserve evidence.