Apple Accuses OpenAI of Destroying Evidence in Trade Secret Lawsuit

Apple is pushing for "expedited discovery" in its legal battle against OpenAI, alleging that the company is actively destroying evidence. In a filing on Monday, Apple claimed that OpenAI delayed handing over a MacBook used by a former employee, which contained discussions about "destroying the types of forensic data Apple needs." This is the latest development in a lawsuit accusing the ChatGPT-maker of stealing trade secrets to build an AI device. The case revolves around three former Apple employees who joined OpenAI, including Chang Liu, who allegedly kept a company-owned MacBook after his departure. Apple accuses OpenAI of failing to inspect the laptop despite possessing it since the lawsuit began in July. Upon receiving the laptop on August 21st, Apple's inspection allegedly found that Liu downloaded a confidential circuit schematic and used it in his work at OpenAI. Apple also claims Liu and others at OpenAI were aware of his continued access to Apple’s third-party cloud storage. Furthermore, messages were uncovered in which Liu discussed the need to "restore" and then "start using" Apple-owned devices after learning of an internal investigation in June. OpenAI has countered that the dispute is a result of Apple's own "messy" employee exit process and maintains there is no evidence that Liu accessed Apple information improperly.