OpenAI filed a lawsuit against Apple following a reciprocal legal action initiated by the tech company in July. Two former Apple staff members allegedly stole proprietary intellectual property and handed it over to OpenAI.
One unidentified employee departed Apple to work at OpenAI for a period of six months. That individual later returned to Apple while carrying confidential details regarding hardware projects at OpenAI.
OpenAI connected the theft of information to the HomeView smart home hub developed by Apple. The artificial intelligence firm was developing a smart speaker in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design studio founded by Jony Ive.
Reports also suggested that OpenAI was considering the production of AI-powered earbuds. The unnamed employee reportedly took more than 100 files concerning OpenAI hardware projects and presented them to Apple executives several months ago.
OpenAI claims the timeframe of the alleged presentation would not have allowed for a significant impact on the design of HomeView. Apple maintains procedures to stop new hires from using confidential data from previous employers and denies that the presentation to its executives occurred.
The company also states there is no evidence that the files in question are stored on its servers. OpenAI expressed concern that its trade secrets and confidential information are now circulating within Apple.
Proceedings could begin as early as June 2027, though a trial might not take place until October 2027.
