Apple sues OpenAI for stealing trade secrets to build consumer hardware

Apple has filed a high-profile lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that the AI company systematically stole trade secrets to develop its own consumer hardware. The suit, reported by CNBC and BBC, claims OpenAI poached Apple employees and used confidential information to gain an unfair advantage. Specifically, Apple names two former employees—Chang Liu and Tang Tan—who allegedly took proprietary data when they left for OpenAI. The lawsuit cites text messages, including one where Liu joked about accessing Apple's network storage.

OpenAI is also accused of leveraging job interviews with Apple workers to extract trade secrets. This legal battle highlights the fierce competition in AI hardware, as OpenAI reportedly races to build devices that rival Apple's ecosystem. The case underscores the growing tensions between tech giants over intellectual property in the AI arms race. Apple seeks damages and an injunction to prevent further misuse of its technology.