Apple says more ex-employees may have taken confidential data to OpenAI

Apple has filed for a preliminary injunction in its trade secrets dispute against OpenAI, alleging the AI company may have acquired confidential data from former Apple employees. The tech giant claims that Liu Chang, a senior systems engineer, and Tang Yew Tan, its Chief Hardware Officer, are among several former Apple employees who could have played a role in the alleged theft.

Apple also asserts that at least 11 other former Apple workers could have been witnesses or involved in the situation. The company's ongoing investigation has identified new evidence suggesting the misconduct extends beyond those initially named in the complaint. For example, a former Apple employee reportedly met with Liu and Peng in advance of Peng's interview at OpenAI, discussing Apple's proprietary information regarding unannounced products.

Another former Apple employee allegedly took screenshots of confidential documents before an interview at OpenAI. Furthermore, Apple claims that multiple former Apple employees who are now at OpenAI have reached out to discuss returning Apple-issued work devices they kept when they left the company. Apple is requesting expedited discovery from the accused OpenAI employees, OpenAI itself, and io, the device startup co-founded by former Apple lead designer Jony Ive.

OpenAI responded to Apple's latest move, contesting the preliminary injunction request as "both based on false information and completely unnecessary." The AI model maker emphasized its interest in creating innovative products and technologies and denied allegations of discussing matters with OpenAI's general counsel. Apple also refuted claims that the alleged "residual access" to its systems was due to poor security procedures on Apple's end.