Apple Files New Evidence Alleging OpenAI Used Its Circuit Schematic

Apple has submitted new evidence in its trade-secrets case involving OpenAI, alleging former Apple engineer Chang Liu used a confidential circuit schematic in OpenAI work, automated part of the analysis with an AI agent, and sought to have evidence destroyed.

The August 31 submission supports Apple’s request for expedited discovery and an injunction barring OpenAI from using its trade secrets. Apple filed the case in July against Liu and former Apple executive Tang Tan, alleging they used Apple data after joining OpenAI.

A laptop, a schematic and a simulation

Apple says forensic analysis of a company MacBook that Liu retained after leaving found evidence of unauthorized access to Apple information and efforts to conceal that activity. Apple alleges Liu downloaded the circuit schematic in March, two months after leaving the company, then used it in his OpenAI work.

According to Apple’s filing, Liu used the schematic in LTspice, an electrical-engineering simulation tool, for power-conversion development. Apple further alleges that he trained an AI agent to run LTspice, inspect results and tune a compensation parameter.

Other allegations in Apple’s submission

• After learning of Apple’s internal investigation, Liu allegedly instructed an OpenAI colleague to destroy evidence. Apple says the colleague confirmed she would comply.
• Apple alleges Liu and others at OpenAI knew about his unauthorized access to Apple third-party cloud storage.
• Apple also alleges Liu used an OpenAI tool with the same name as an internal Apple engineering application.

The immediate fight is over access and use

Apple wants to investigate a Mac mini and other devices still in Liu’s possession, saying the Mac mini synced with the recovered MacBook. Apple says the new material shows its trade secrets remain in active use and that evidence is being destroyed.

Apple’s requested injunction would prevent OpenAI from using its trade secrets. Apple has also sought to halt OpenAI hardware-development efforts, including work on a rumored screenless AI-driven device.

OpenAI seeks dismissal

OpenAI has asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, calling Apple’s allegations meritless. The company said it does not have or want Apple’s trade secrets. The October hearing is the next scheduled step in a dispute over whether Apple can obtain faster access to the devices and records it seeks.