Apple filed a lawsuit on Friday against OpenAI and the company's head of hardware, Tang Tan, accusing them of stealing Apple trade secrets and confidential information.
In the legal filing, Apple alleges that Tang Tan — who previously served as Apple’s vice president of product design — obtained information through various means. Among the methods cited, the complaint says Tang directed job candidates who were still employed by Apple to participate in “show and tell” sessions that revealed information about their employer.
“At every level, from members of its technical staff to its chief hardware officer, and in coordination with business partners, OpenAI has been stealing Apple’s trade secrets and confidential information,” the lawsuit states. “As a natural result, OpenAI’s nascent hardware business now rests on the shakiest of foundations, rotten to its core by its illegal reliance on misappropriated trade secrets.”
OpenAI responded in a statement that it has “no interest in other companies’ trade secrets,” and a spokesperson added, “We remain focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere.”
Apple’s filing also says that more than 400 of its former employees now work at OpenAI. In the lawsuit, Apple is seeking a jury trial and demands that OpenAI destroy any proprietary materials tied to Apple. The company is additionally asking that OpenAI redesign upcoming products to ensure they do not incorporate Apple technology.
A prolonged legal dispute could complicate OpenAI’s plans as it prepares for a potential initial public offering (IPO).
The report was filed by Karey Van Hall; OpenAI and Tang Tan did not immediately provide further comment.
