Apple sues OpenAI for stealing hardware secrets: What are the key accusations?

Apple has sued OpenAI, accusing the AI startup of stealing trade secrets and confidential information through current and former Apple employees to advance its own efforts to enter the consumer hardware market. The lawsuit primarily revolves around the alleged actions of three people: Tang Tan, OpenAI’s Chief Hardware Officer: Tan previously served as vice president of Apple Watch. In 2024, he left the company to join Jony Ive’s hardware company, io Products, which OpenAI acquired last year.