tech
A lawyer says Apple wants a judge to open OpenAI's black box
A lawyer says a lawsuit between OpenAI and Apple over trade secret theft could set the stage for a legal battle that may reshape tech industry norms.
TL;DR
- Apple is suing OpenAI, alleging theft of trade secrets and poaching of over 400 employees to develop its hardware business.
- Apple claims its former engineer accessed confidential files using his old company laptop while at OpenAI.
- The lawsuit is seen as Apple's way to gain insight into OpenAI's actions, as the company lacks visibility into its operations.
- The case relies on the 2016 Defend Trade Secrets Act, requiring Apple to prove secrecy, safeguard precautions, and intentional improper acquisition.
- A critical aspect will be proving if OpenAI has utilized any stolen trade secrets in its hardware development, with OpenAI denying the allegations.
- While OpenAI is recruiting former Apple employees, the law generally protects this unless secrets were intentionally brought over.