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Apple's Legal Win: Court Orders OpenAI to Hand Over Hiring Records

Apple Scores Early Victory in Trade Secrets Case Against OpenAI

In the high-stakes legal showdown between Apple and OpenAI, a federal judge has handed Apple an early win. Judge Edward Davila ruled that Apple can fast-track access to recruitment materials from OpenAI, according to court documents. The decision centers on OpenAI's hiring practices for its consumer hardware and robotics teams—areas that could directly compete with Apple's core products.

What Apple Gets to See

The court approved Apple's request to review documents related to "OpenAI's contact with Apple employees before interviews." These materials include interview lists, guidelines, scripts, technical demonstrations, and records that confirm whether "Apple technology or components were mentioned during interviews." OpenAI must produce the organized materials within five days and complete the rest within fourteen days.

Additionally, Judge Davila approved Apple's access to private LINE chat records involving OpenAI employees Liu Chang and Peng Ailisa. He also ordered out-of-court depositions of the two individuals and hardware chief Deng Yaotan—all of whom previously worked at Apple.

The Espionage Allegations

Apple's complaint paints a detailed picture: former Apple employees allegedly downloaded confidential information using company laptops, including unpublished technical specifications, engineering demonstrations, and exclusive project data. Even more striking, former Apple employees who joined OpenAI are accused of "teaching" potential leavers what information to bring during interviews.

This all comes as OpenAI is developing consumer hardware that could compete with the iPhone—a prospect that clearly has Apple on edge.

Not Everything Went Apple's Way

Judge Davila didn't grant all of Apple's requests. The company's bid for expedited discovery of specific research materials—such as metal surface treatment and power management—was denied, as were broader requests for hardware research materials and output from "former Apple employees after joining." However, Davila left the door open: Apple can narrow the scope and reapply. The battle over trade secrets is far from over.

Key Points

  • Court ruling: Judge Edward Davila approved Apple's request for expedited discovery of OpenAI's recruitment materials.
  • Deadline: OpenAI must provide organized materials within 5 days; remaining materials within 14 days.
  • Depositions: Apple can access private LINE chats and depose three former Apple employees now at OpenAI.
  • Denied requests: Apple's broader requests for hardware research materials were rejected, but it can reapply with a narrower scope.
  • Background: Apple alleges former employees stole confidential information and coached others on what to bring to interviews.