Apple Sues OpenAI, Claims Job Interviews Used to Steal iPhone Secrets
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the company used job interviews with former Apple engineers to extract trade secrets related to iPhone technology and supply chains.
Apple Inc. has sued OpenAI, claiming the artificial intelligence company used job interviews with former Apple engineers to obtain confidential information about prototypes, manufacturing processes, and supplier relationships. The iPhone maker is seeking an injunction and damages.
The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California, directly targets the hardware ambitions of OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman. Apple alleges that OpenAI recruiters and hardware leaders asked job candidates to bring physical components and design materials into interviews, and pressed them for details on unreleased products.
Apple states that OpenAI then used this information to develop hardware, recruit more Apple employees, and approach Apple's suppliers. The company is seeking damages and court orders to prevent the defendants from possessing or using its trade secrets.
Apple claims it warned OpenAI in February about the potential misappropriation of confidential information and requested an investigation. According to the complaint, OpenAI never responded. This legal action highlights growing tensions between AI developers and major tech firms over intellectual property protection.
Apple is seeking a preliminary injunction to halt OpenAI's use of the allegedly stolen trade secrets. The company also requires evidence preservation for the upcoming legal proceedings. The defendants, including OpenAI and its io Products hardware unit, have yet to formally respond to the allegations.