OpenAI alleges former employee shared over 100 product files with Apple
OpenAI alleges that a former employee took more than 100 files about its product plans before joining Apple, and presented the material to Apple leaders. The claims appear in a filing connected to the companies’ trade secrets dispute, in which Apple has also accused OpenAI of taking confidential information.
OpenAI says the files included images of an unreleased device, supplier details, engineering data and hardware design information. It links the former employee’s presentation to Apple’s recently announced HomeView smart display and other products, though Apple’s plans for the display reportedly date back years. Apple did not immediately comment.
- OpenAI says a former employee took more than 100 product files.
- It alleges the material was presented to Apple leaders.
- The claims add to a wider trade secrets dispute between the firms.
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OpenAI develops artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT, while Apple makes devices and software such as the iPhone. Both companies are expanding into products that combine artificial intelligence with everyday technology, including devices for the home.
Trade secrets are private information that can give a company a commercial advantage, such as designs, technical details or product plans. Disputes over whether such information was improperly shared can lead to court cases, where each company can present its claims and evidence.
The case concerns a former OpenAI employee who later joined Apple and what information, if any, was shared with Apple. The companies’ competing accusations matter because the outcome could affect their product plans and how they protect confidential information.
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The case for
OpenAI’s allegations, if supported by evidence, raise a serious concern that a former employee shared confidential product and engineering material with a competitor. Protecting trade secrets can safeguard years of investment, supplier relationships and fair competition, and the reported presentation to Apple leaders could warrant scrutiny of whether the information influenced product decisions.
The case against
The claims remain allegations in a dispute where Apple has made its own accusations, and the available account does not establish that Apple received or used the files improperly. Apple’s reported plans for HomeView predate the presentation, so similarities or timing alone would not show that the device derived from OpenAI’s material; a fair assessment would require evidence about what was shared and how it affected development.
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Originally published by The Verge as “OpenAI claims an ex-employee took its product plans and presented them to Apple”.