Technology
Apple seeks faster discovery in OpenAI case, alleging evidence destruction
The iPhone maker claims OpenAI delayed turning over a laptop belonging to a former employee and that forensic data at risk of being lost could prove trade secret theft.
The Verge
Apple has requested expedited discovery procedures in its ongoing legal battle with OpenAI, arguing that the AI firm is actively destroying evidence needed to prove its allegations of trade secret theft.
The disputed laptop and delayed handover#
At the center of Apple's concerns is a MacBook previously owned by Chang Liu, a former Apple employee now at OpenAI. According to Apple's court filing, OpenAI kept the device in its possession since the lawsuit began in July but only delivered it to Apple in late August. When Apple finally inspected the machine on August 21st, it discovered that Liu had downloaded confidential Apple schematics and incorporated them into his work at the AI company.
What the evidence allegedly shows#
The inspection also turned up messages in which Liu discussed needing to restore and begin using Apple-owned devices after learning of an internal investigation in June. Apple contends these communications demonstrate Liu and others at OpenAI understood the sensitivity of accessing Apple's proprietary information. The company claims Liu maintained continued access to Apple's cloud storage systems even after departing.
Why timing matters for evidence preservation#
Apple emphasizes that critical forensic data—including logs, metadata, and usage records—are vulnerable to being lost, overwritten, or permanently deleted. The delayed examination of the MacBook, the company argues, illustrates why courts should expedite the discovery process to preserve perishable digital evidence before it disappears.
OpenAI's counter-argument#
OpenAI disputes the characterization, arguing in its own filing that Apple's employee exit procedures are poorly managed and that the company itself bears responsibility for the situation. The firm maintains there is no proof Liu obtained Apple information through improper channels or for unauthorized purposes, and questions what practical value such confidential data would hold for him at his new employer.
