Apple Accuses OpenAI of Destroying Evidence in Trade Secret Lawsuit
In the trade secret lawsuit with OpenAI, Apple requested expedited discovery, claiming that correspondence indicating the destruction of forensic data on a former employee's computer had been detected.
Apple has applied for expedited discovery in a lawsuit alleging the theft of trade secrets, citing the risk that OpenAI might destroy evidence.
Request for Expedited Discovery
Apple is seeking an expedited judicial process in its legal battle with OpenAI out of concern that the opposing party is actively destroying evidence. According to a court filing submitted on Monday, this move was triggered by the delayed delivery of a MacBook belonging to a former employee at the center of the case.
Background of the Case and Former Employees
The lawsuit in question stems from accusations that ChatGPT maker OpenAI stole trade secrets to develop an artificial intelligence device. The case involves three former employees, including Chang Liu, who allegedly kept his company-owned MacBook after leaving Apple.
Findings from the MacBook Inspection
Apple argues that OpenAI delayed inspecting the laptop despite having possession of it since the beginning of the lawsuit. An examination of the device, delivered on August 21, allegedly revealed that Liu downloaded a confidential circuit schematic and used it in his work at OpenAI.
Cloud Access and Risk of Evidence Loss
Apple states that Liu and other OpenAI employees were aware that access to Apple's third-party cloud storage system was ongoing. Investigations revealed messages regarding the wiping and reuse of devices following the investigation in June.
OpenAI's Defense and Response to Allegations
In the filed documents, OpenAI counters that this dispute is a mess of Apple's own making. The company states that despite irregularities in the employee departure process, there is no evidence that Liu used information for an improper purpose.