Home / Technology / Apple Seeks Ban on Ex-Staff, OpenAI Data Use
Apple Seeks Ban on Ex-Staff, OpenAI Data Use
4 Aug
Summary
- Apple seeks to stop ex-employees and OpenAI using confidential data.
- The iPhone maker claims trade secrets were misappropriated for AI hardware.
- OpenAI denies using or wanting any of Apple's trade secrets.
Apple initiated legal action on August 3, 2026, seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent two former employees and OpenAI from accessing or disclosing alleged confidential information. The iPhone maker claims these individuals misappropriated trade secrets to aid OpenAI's consumer hardware endeavors, marking a significant escalation in their dispute.
The company also filed a motion for expedited discovery, demanding documents related to the defendants' alleged access to Apple's proprietary data. Apple specifically requested depositions from the former employees, Chang Liu and Tang Yew Tan, along with OpenAI personnel.
OpenAI responded on Monday, August 3, 2026, through a blog post, refuting Apple's claims. The AI firm stated that Apple's request is based on false information and is unnecessary, as OpenAI does not possess or desire any of Apple's trade secrets.
This lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, sets the stage for a contest over the future of AI devices that may bypass traditional app structures and operating systems, potentially diverting consumer attention from Apple's flagship products.
