Apple files a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging trade secret theft tied to former Apple employees and OpenAI’s move into consumer hardware. In the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, Apple argues that OpenAI obtained confidential information from people who previously worked at Apple and used it to advance hardware projects.

One theme highlighted by outlets is Apple’s focus on manufacturing and product development know-how. Fast Company reports Apple points to a specific example involving metal-finishing techniques, arguing that OpenAI allegedly used confidential Apple information to approach an outside manufacturing partner and mislead the partner about authorization. The suit also cites alleged actions by OpenAI Chief Hardware Officer Tang Yew Tan and former Apple engineer Chang Liu, including claims of accessing confidential files and coordinating with business partners.

OpenAI denies the allegations and seeks dismissal, portraying Apple’s case as meritless and a “pretext” tied to alleged business challenges. According to MacRumors, OpenAI argues it is building “something entirely new,” contests whether Apple identified protectable trade secrets, and says its version of events involves normal recruiting and interpretation of communications. OpenAI also disputes claims about a breakdown in earlier contact and challenges Apple’s requests to speed up proceedings and impose a preliminary injunction.