Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the company behind ChatGPT of using stolen trade secrets from Apple to develop its own hardware, according to reporting by CNN. Apple says the dispute relates directly to OpenAI's planned hardware project and could affect the company's IPO timeline.
Who is named in the complaint
The complaint names several individuals and entities. Central figures are Chang Liu, a former Apple engineer, and Tang Tan, who previously led design work on iPhones and Apple Watches and now heads OpenAI's hardware division. Both are employed by OpenAI. The complaint also names io Products, a company founded by Jony Ive that was later acquired by OpenAI.
The filing does not name Jony Ive as a defendant. The report notes that Ive had been working with OpenAI since 2024 and was hired by OpenAI in 2025, strengthening their relationship, but he is not identified in the lawsuit.
Apple's allegations against former employees
Apple alleges that Chang Liu and Tang Tan bear primary responsibility. According to the complaint, Liu resigned in January and then joined OpenAI. Apple says he did not respond to requests to reaffirm his confidentiality obligations, did not participate in an exit interview, did not return his company laptop, and allegedly obtained a former colleague's laptop. Apple contends that Liu thereby accessed dozens of confidential files related to hardware design.
Apple additionally alleges that Tang used confidential company information to recruit engineers from his former employer and asked interviewees to bring design samples to meetings. The complaint claims Tang and OpenAI held training sessions aimed at encouraging Apple employees to quit. Apple also alleges Tang forwarded several supplier emails to his own account before resigning. Multiple former Apple employees face similar accusations in the filing.
Apple attempted to contact OpenAI
The complaint states Apple tried to raise its concerns with OpenAI while its investigation was still in early stages, but claims it received no response.
Why this matters
OpenAI planned to unveil its own hardware this year, and has also been reported to be considering an IPO this year or possibly in 2027. Apple says the lawsuit could complicate both the hardware launch and any IPO preparations because the case concerns trade secrets and the protection of intellectual property.
The initial reporting on the lawsuit was published by CNN; the allegations described here are drawn from the court filing, and further details will depend on how the legal process unfolds.
