Judge Orders OpenAI to Hand Over Hiring Records in Apple Trade Secrets Case

A federal judge has ordered OpenAI to give Apple access to hiring-related records in a trade secrets lawsuit, TechCrunch reported on October 13, 2026. U.S. District Judge Edward Davila issued the ruling in the case Apple filed against OpenAI in July 2026.

Background of the case

OpenAI is developing a consumer hardware device that could eventually compete with the iPhone. Apple alleges former Apple employees now at OpenAI used Apple laptops to download confidential material, including files on unannounced technologies, features and products. Apple also alleges those employees coached others considering leaving Apple on what information to bring to OpenAI interviews.

What the judge ordered

• Interview materials: Apple may view OpenAI documents from interviews with former Apple employees who applied for consumer hardware and robotics roles. These may include checklists, guides, scripts and technical presentations, plus records showing interviews referenced Apple technology or components.
• Private messages: Apple can access LINE messages between individuals named in the case, including OpenAI employees Chang Liu and Alyssa Peng.
• Depositions: Apple may depose Liu, Peng and OpenAI's chief hardware officer, Tang Yew Tan, all of whom are former Apple employees.

OpenAI has 5 days to turn over materials it has already collected and 14 days to produce other covered materials.

What was denied

The judge denied Apple's request for expedited access to OpenAI's research and development in specific areas, such as metal finishes and power management, along with several broader requests, including OpenAI's hardware research and information on what former employees created while at OpenAI. The denial is not final, as the judge allowed Apple to narrow its requests and try again.

TechCrunch's report did not include direct statements from the judge, Apple or OpenAI. The allegations are Apple's claims and have not been proven.