Apple sues OpenAI, exec, and ex-engineer for hardware secrets theft

Apple is suing OpenAI, its hardware head Tang Tan, and former Apple engineer Chang Liu, alleging a coordinated scheme to steal confidential hardware information for OpenAI's own hardware projects.

The lawsuit claims OpenAI encouraged Apple employees during interviews to share unreleased product details, parts, and design drawings. Job candidates were also instructed to conceal their destination to prevent Apple from revoking access.

Liu joined OpenAI in January. Apple alleges he downloaded dozens of confidential files before leaving, including specs and project data for unreleased products.

Tan, who previously oversaw iPhone and Apple hardware engineering, is accused of orchestrating the effort alongside OpenAI.