Tech · October 13, 2026
Judge orders OpenAI to turn over hiring records in Apple trade secrets case
A legal dispute between Apple and OpenAI involving mutual allegations of trade secret theft has escalated following new court rulings and filings. U.S. District Judge Edward Davila granted Apple expedited access to OpenAI's hiring records and interview materials for specific former Apple employees. Simultaneously, OpenAI filed new allegations claiming a former employee stole over 100 confidential files related to unreleased hardware and presented them to Apple leadership, potentially influencing Apple's new AI-enabled product line, including the recently announced HomeView smart display.
Read the original coverage
- TechCrunchTrade
Judge orders OpenAI to turn over hiring records in Apple trade secrets case | TechCrunch
Read at TechCrunch ↗ - The VergeTrade
OpenAI claims an ex-employee took its product plans and presented them to Apple
Read at The Verge ↗ - The GuardianMainstream
OpenAI accuses employee who left for Apple of leaking plans for unreleased device
Read at The Guardian ↗
Reported by multiple outlets
- Judge Edward Davila ordered OpenAI to turn over specific hiring records and interview materials to Apple.
- OpenAI has been ordered to allow depositions of former Apple employees Chang Liu and Tang Yew Tan.
- OpenAI is alleging that a former employee took over 100 confidential files to Apple.
- The legal battle involves claims that employees from both companies took trade secrets when switching employers.
- Apple recently announced new AI products, including a device called HomeView.
Reported by only some outlets
- Apple specifically requested access to private LINE messages between individuals named in the case, which the judge approved.
- The judge denied Apple’s request for access to OpenAI’s research on metal finishes and power management.
- OpenAI alleges the former employee presented stolen information to Apple’s vice president of operations in Asia.
- The trial for the case is tentatively scheduled for 2027.
- Alyssa Peng was named as a third individual for deposition alongside Liu and Tan.
Industry-friendly coverage frames it as…
The coverage focuses on the high stakes of the 'AI hardware' race, framing the legal battle as a struggle for dominance in a market that could eventually rival the smartphone industry.
Skeptical / consumer coverage frames it as…
The Verge notes that Apple's product plans often operate on long timelines and that the HomeView device had been rumored for years, casting doubt on OpenAI's claim of immediate influence.
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