Apple sues OpenAI over alleged theft of iPhone tech in US court

Apple filed a lawsuit on Friday, July 10, 2026, in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, accusing OpenAI of orchestrating a scheme to steal trade secrets related to unreleased Apple products. The suit claims OpenAI's chief hardware officer, Tan Tan—a former Apple VP who led iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods design—and former engineer Chang Liu encouraged current and former Apple staff to share confidential designs, engineering documents and hardware components, while coaching them to avoid immediate dismissal so they could retain access to Apple's systems. OpenAI denies the allegations, saying it has no interest in competitors' secrets and is focused on building its own AI technology. The lawsuit notes that over 400 former Apple employees now work at OpenAI, highlighting a major talent shift after the two companies' 2024 partnership that brought ChatGPT to Siri and Apple Intelligence deteriorated following OpenAI's hiring of Jony Ive and poaching of Apple engineers. For Nigerians who rely on iPhones, Macs and Apple's AI features, the legal battle could delay or alter the rollout of new AI-powered tools, affect device pricing or availability, and signal intensifying global AI competition that may influence local tech opportunities and talent flows. Stay tuned to official Apple updates for any changes to iOS or device releases, consider alternative brands if delays affect your purchase plans, and remain mindful of confidentiality obligations if you work in tech.

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/07/11/apple-sues-openai-over-alleged-trade-secret-theft/