From AI buddies to rivals: Apple and OpenAI’s bromance ends in court with blockbuster trade secrets lawsuit

Apple has filed a 41-page lawsuit in a San Jose federal court against OpenAI, accusing the company of orchestrating a campaign to steal trade secrets and confidential information. The lawsuit alleges that OpenAI has aggressively poached Apple employees to assist in the development of its own consumer hardware devices, marking a sharp escalation from their 2024 partnership to integrate ChatGPT into Apple products.

The complaint specifically names OpenAI, its subsidiary io Products, and former Apple employees Tang Yew Tan and Chang Liu. Apple claims that individuals employed by OpenAI wrongfully took information regarding unreleased technologies, processes, and products. The lawsuit alleges that Tan, a former Apple vice president, used confidential project code names during interviews and requested that candidates bring physical components, such as batteries and circuit boards, for "show and tell" sessions.

OpenAI has denied the allegations, stating they have no interest in other companies' trade secrets and remain focused on innovation. This legal battle comes at a critical time for OpenAI, as the company prepares for a highly anticipated initial public offering and seeks to expand its presence in the hardware market.

(Source：Malay Mail)