Apple Seeks Injunction Against OpenAI Over Alleged Trade Secret Theft

Apple has petitioned a federal judge for an immediate injunction to block OpenAI from utilizing proprietary data, claiming the AI firm orchestrated a campaign to pilfer hardware secrets. The motion seeks the return of confidential files and an end to acquisition efforts while the broader legal battle between the companies continues.

Editorial·August 5, 2026·reads: 898

Apple Seeks Injunction Against OpenAI Over Alleged Trade Secret Theft

Lawyers for the iPhone manufacturer argued in a Tuesday filing that if Apple’s trade secrets are integrated into OpenAI’s products, the resulting damage would be irreversible. The lawsuit, initiated in July, marks a sharp rupture between the former partners, who previously collaborated on the Apple Intelligence platform and Siri.

OpenAI dismissed the motion as baseless, stating they have no interest in Apple’s internal data. The AI company pointed to the recruitment of over 400 former Apple employees as a point of contention, specifically addressing the case of engineer Chang Liu. While Apple alleges Liu exploited an authentication bug to access hardware files, OpenAI countered by releasing messages suggesting Apple staff initiated the contact to seek his technical assistance.

OpenAI must submit a formal response to the court by August 17. A hearing on the motion is set for October 1.