Apple sues OpenAI over alleged theft of hardware trade secrets, threatens AI rival’s product timeline

Key Points

• Apple filed a lawsuit accusing OpenAI of stealing hardware trade secrets and evading security protocols.
• The complaint cites unauthorized file access, a checklist to bypass Apple’s exit security, and misuse of a proprietary metal‑finishing technique.
• More than 400 former Apple employees now work at OpenAI, including recent hires from Apple’s smart‑glasses division.
• Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman warns the case could slow OpenAI’s hardware development and delay its iPhone‑rival product.
• California law limits Apple’s ability to enforce non‑compete clauses, forcing the case to focus on specific misconduct.
• OpenAI is preparing for an IPO and aims to launch its first hardware product by 2027, despite the legal cloud.
• Apple’s own hardware roadmap proceeds, featuring new AI‑focused wearables.