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Apple accuses OpenAI of destroying evidence in trade secrets dispute

Apple requests expedited discovery, alleging OpenAI delayed turning over a former employee's laptop containing messages about deleting forensic data.

The short version

  • Apple filed a motion for expedited discovery, alleging that OpenAI is actively destroying evidence related to an ongoing trade secrets lawsuit.
  • The lawsuit centers on claims that OpenAI hired three former Apple employees, including Chang Liu, to improperly use trade secrets to develop an AI device.
  • Apple claims a recently surrendered laptop used by a former employee contained discussions about deleting key forensic data.
  • The court has yet to rule on Apple's request for expedited discovery, and OpenAI's formal response to the spoliation claims is pending.

Key facts

  • Apple requested expedited discovery in a court filing, alleging that OpenAI is destroying evidence relevant to their legal dispute.[The Verge]
  • Apple's broader lawsuit accuses OpenAI of misappropriating trade secrets to create an artificial intelligence hardware device.[The Verge]
  • The legal action involves three former Apple personnel who moved to OpenAI, including Chang Liu.[The Verge]
  • According to Apple's filing, a computer previously used by a former employee was only recently surrendered and contained communications regarding the destruction of forensic information.[The Verge]

What remains uncertain

  • Whether OpenAI or the former employees successfully destroyed any relevant forensic data remains unverified.[The Verge]
  • The court's decision on whether to grant Apple's motion for expedited discovery has not been determined.[The Verge]

Sources