Apple Wins Early Access to OpenAI Hiring Records in Trade Secrets Case

Apple has secured access to OpenAI’s hiring records and private communications in a trade secrets lawsuit involving former Apple employees who joined the AI company’s hardware division. A federal judge approved limited expedited discovery while rejecting broader requests for access to OpenAI’s hardware research.

U.S. District Judge Edward Davila issued the October 13 order, requiring the production of previously collected materials within five days and other approved records within 14 days.

Apple Gains Access to OpenAI Interview Records

The order covers documents used to interview former Apple employees seeking positions in OpenAI’s Consumer Hardware Products Group. These include interview checklists, instructions, manuals, scripts, and technical presentations that document discussions involving Apple technology or components.

Apple filed the lawsuit in July 2026, alleging that former employees improperly accessed confidential information about unreleased products, engineering specifications and proprietary projects. The company also claims some employees encouraged colleagues considering jobs at OpenAI to bring confidential information into recruitment discussions.

Private Messages and Depositions Also Approved

The judge authorised access to LINE messaging conversations between former Apple employee Chang Liu and OpenAI employee Alyssa Peng dating from January 1, 2026. Apple cited discussions about restoring company-issued devices as part of its concerns over potentially lost digital evidence.

The court also approved depositions of Liu, Peng and OpenAI chief hardware officer Tang Yew Tan, all former Apple employees. The depositions must occur within 30 days after Apple receives the approved discovery materials, while limited questioning of corporate representatives from OpenAI and io Products was also permitted.

The defendants challenged Apple’s interpretation of the evidence. Their forensic expert reported finding no indication that Liu used an allegedly confidential file with an AI platform, according to the court filing.

Judge Limits Access to OpenAI Hardware Research

Davila denied Apple’s request for expedited access to research involving metal finishes, power management and battery functionality. He found several requests overly broad and burdensome but allowed Apple to propose narrower demands.

Apple is seeking a preliminary injunction as part of the lawsuit, and the court approved discovery to support that proceeding. The ruling addresses access to evidence rather than determining whether trade secret theft occurred.