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Apple Asks Court To Keep Trade‑Secrets Suit Alive and Win Fast Discovery

Granting Apple’s request would let the court order quick depositions and device inspections that could show whether former Apple engineers brought confidential hardware information to OpenAI.

Overview

  • Apple filed a 32‑page opposition this week asking a federal judge to deny OpenAI’s motion to dismiss and to permit expedited discovery so the claims can be tested in court.
  • The complaint accuses former Apple engineer Chang Liu of exploiting a rare authentication bug to download dozens of confidential engineering files and accuses OpenAI hardware chief Tang Yew Tan of soliciting internal Apple components during hiring interactions.
  • OpenAI has moved to dismiss, arguing Apple did not identify protectable trade secrets and that the contested accesses have innocent explanations such as device syncing; OpenAI has published selected exhibits and said it will preserve evidence.
  • Judge Edward J. Davila is set to hear competing arguments about dismissal and Apple’s bid for fast discovery on October 1, when the court will decide whether the case moves into broader fact‑gathering.
  • The lawsuit frames a wider industry fight over talent and proprietary hardware know‑how—Apple says more than 400 former employees now work at OpenAI and market observers warn that sweeping discovery or remedies could affect hiring, partnerships and OpenAI’s valuation.