OpenAI rejects Apple's trade secret lawsuit allegations
AI firm shares it sees no evidence supporting Apple's legal claims
OpenAI denied allegations in Apple's trade secret lawsuit, saying it is unaware of any evidence supporting the claims and remains focused on developing its own technology.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, the artificial intelligence company said it takes the allegations seriously but believes the complaint lacks merit.
"While we take these allegations seriously, we're not aware of any evidence that this complaint has merit," OpenAI said. "We believe in fair competition and allowing people the freedom to work wherever they choose, and we're focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere."
Apple alleges misuse of confidential information
Apple filed the lawsuit last week in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, accusing former employees now working at OpenAI of participating in a coordinated effort to obtain confidential information and trade secrets.
The complaint includes allegations involving OpenAI's Chief Hardware Officer Tang Tan, who spent 24 years at Apple and previously served as vice president of product design for the iPhone and Apple Watch.
Apple claims its internal investigation uncovered evidence that OpenAI and its partners used confidential company information while developing their own hardware products.
Case comes as OpenAI expands hardware ambitions
The lawsuit arrives as OpenAI pushes further into consumer hardware. The company recently acquired former Apple designer Jony Ive's startup, io, and is reportedly developing a screen-free AI device designed to serve as a home companion.
According to recent reports, the device will feature integrated AI capabilities, moving mechanical components and contributions from several former Apple engineers who helped develop the iPhone and Mac.
OpenAI had previously told TechCrunch it has no interest in using other companies' trade secrets and remains focused on building its own innovative technologies. The company said it would provide further comment as the legal case progresses.
