Apple is pressing for broader access to OpenAI’s hardware research in its trade-secrets lawsuit, while disputing the forensic work used to examine devices belonging to former Apple engineer Chang Liu. The latest discovery fight expands the case beyond a single set of files.
In the federal court docket, Apple alleges that OpenAI and Jony Ive’s io recruited engineers and obtained confidential information tied to Apple’s hardware development. The defendants deny wrongdoing, and the court has not ruled that Apple’s trade secrets were stolen.
Apple now wants its own experts to inspect underlying forensic images used to analyze Liu’s devices. It says that access is needed to test conclusions about what Apple information Liu accessed or used after leaving the company. OpenAI has challenged the request and Apple’s interpretation of the existing analysis.
Don’t miss the best of The Mac Observer
Set us as a preferred source and our Apple reporting ranks higher in your Google Search results and Discover feed — one tap, no account changes.
The dispute reaches OpenAI’s hardware plans
Apple is also seeking documents about OpenAI’s hardware research involving batteries, antennas and wireless systems, displays, and motion sensing. Its argument is that those areas overlap with confidential projects described in the complaint. OpenAI says the categories are overbroad and could expose unrelated research.
The disagreement follows OpenAI’s effort to dismiss Apple’s trade-secrets claims. Apple later submitted additional evidence, arguing that the case should proceed. These filings remain allegations and legal arguments, not findings of liability.
The scope of discovery matters because OpenAI’s collaboration with Ive is expected to produce consumer hardware, but public details remain limited. Earlier court filings indicated the device is not an in-ear product, without establishing its final design or release timing.
A judge will ultimately decide how much material each side must provide and what safeguards apply. Until then, the new demands show Apple is trying to connect specific device activity with the wider hardware program, while OpenAI is trying to keep discovery narrowly tied to the pleaded claims.
Discussion