OpenAI releases chat logs disputing Apple's trade secret theft claims

What happened

OpenAI published internal messages showing that Apple employees repeatedly contacted their former colleague Chang Liu after his January 22, 2026 departure to request technical help and access to internal files. On January 27, Liu was asked for a technical assessment; on February 14, for schematics; and on March 5, he was added to a group chat where he directed employees to internal folders before removing himself. OpenAI also noted that Apple's legal team made errors in initial outreach, confusing two Asian last names and claiming a phone conversation with OpenAI's General Counsel that never occurred.

Why it matters

Apple alleges systematic theft of trade secrets by OpenAI and claims the company encouraged departing employees to steal files during their notice periods. The published messages suggest Apple's own access management failed — Liu retained system access after leaving and was actively sought out by current employees. OpenAI argues this "residual access" is a known internal problem at Apple, not evidence of coordinated theft by OpenAI. The case carries broader weight: more than 400 former Apple employees now work at OpenAI, and the lawsuit ties into OpenAI's hardware ambitions around io Products, co-founded by Jony Ive.

What to watch

The core dispute remains unresolved. The chat logs show Apple had access-control lapses, but they do not directly refute Apple's claim that OpenAI encouraged new hires to bring proprietary information. OpenAI also rejected allegations against Tang Tan, a 24-year Apple veteran now at OpenAI, saying Tan consistently prohibited use of proprietary information from other companies.