Apple has escalated its trade secret lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that newly examined evidence points to misuse of confidential information and efforts to destroy evidence.
Apple made the claims in a new federal court filing as it pushed for expedited discovery. The dispute centers partly on former Apple engineer Chang Liu, who later joined OpenAI. Independent reporting confirms Apple made the new allegations in an August 31 court filing.
MacBook Evidence Adds to Apple’s Claims
According to Apple, forensic examination of Liu’s former work MacBook uncovered information relevant to the lawsuit. Apple alleges Liu downloaded a confidential circuit schematic and later used it while working at OpenAI.
Moreover, Apple claims OpenAI employees knew Liu retained access to Apple’s third-party cloud storage. The filing also alleges that Liu contacted an OpenAI colleague after learning Apple was investigating him. According to Apple, that colleague then confirmed plans to destroy evidence.
Apple further claims a tool Liu used at OpenAI shared a name with an internal Apple engineering application. However, these accusations remain allegations and have not been established as facts by the court.
Apple Pushes for Faster Discovery
Apple argues that the findings strengthen its request for expedited discovery. The company fears that relevant records could disappear before investigators determine what information, if any, was improperly taken or used.
The lawsuit began in July and accuses former Apple employees of taking confidential information for OpenAI’s benefit. Apple has argued that delays could cause further harm.
Meanwhile, OpenAI disputes Apple’s broader claims and has sought dismissal of the lawsuit. It argues that it is developing new products rather than relying on Apple’s proprietary technology.
Legal Battle Remains Unresolved
The latest filing raises the stakes, but it does not establish liability. Apple must still prove its trade secret claims through the legal process.
For now, the MacBook evidence could influence how quickly the court allows Apple to gather documents and testimony. As both sides prepare further arguments, the case could become an important test of trade secret protection amid intense competition for AI talent and hardware expertise.
