Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI alleging that two former employees stole trade secrets related to hardware development.
The suit specifically names Tang Tan, Apple's former 24-year hardware chief, and software engineer Chang Liu. It claims they wrongfully took confidential information including manufacturer contacts, specs and strategies when they joined OpenAI.
OpenAI's hardware ambitions include a planned "humanlike" rechargeable smart speaker equipped with a camera, sensors, battery and mechanical elements that can move on their own. The company acquired io Products, led by former Apple designer Jony Ive, to advance these efforts.
OpenAI reported losses of $5.09 billion in 2024 and $38.5 billion in 2025. The company does not expect profitability until at least 2030.
