# OpenAI pushes back on Apple's trade secret lawsuit

OpenAI defends itself against Apple's trade secret lawsuit.

- **Source:** [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com)
- **Published:** 2026-07-14
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/14/openai-pushes-back-on-apple-trade-secret-lawsuit/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/bba5251d-f542-4c94-81a0-0afd0cb89339

## OpenAI's Defense

OpenAI pushed back against Apple's trade secret lawsuit, stating that the complaint lacks merit and emphasizing their belief in fair competition. This statement was shared by Bloomberg reporter Ed Ludlow on X.

## Apple's Allegations

Apple alleged that former employees of OpenAI engaged in a coordinated effort to obtain confidential information. The 41-page lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, targeting OpenAI's leadership.

## Tang Tan's Role

OpenAI's Chief Hardware Officer Tang Tan, a 24-year Apple veteran, held top positions including VP of product design for the iPhone and Apple Watch. His background plays a significant role in the lawsuit.

## OpenAI's Tech Focus

In response to Apple's lawsuit, OpenAI stated they have no interest in other companies' technologies. They emphasized their focus on building innovative technology that empowers people globally.

## Apple's Internal Investigation

Apple claimed its internal investigation uncovered evidence that OpenAI and its partners used confidential information while developing their own hardware products. This information is central to the lawsuit.

## OpenAI's New Device

Bloomberg reported that OpenAI is working on a screen-free smart speaker, described as a 'humanlike AI companion' designed for home use. The device, developed with input from former Apple engineers, could intensify competition with Apple.

## Sources covering this story

- https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/14/openai-pushes-back-on-apple-trade-secret-lawsuit/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._