Apple seeks OpenAI forensic images and hardware R&D records in trade-secrets case

A joint expedited-discovery filing shows Apple challenging defense forensics and asking for metal-finish, power, and battery documents; OpenAI calls the ask competitor snooping. No ruling yet.

Developing By Priya Nair · Staff Writer — Technology & Science United States / Northern District of California Published Sep 23, 2026, 1:42 PM PT Updated Sep 23, 2026, 1:50 PM PT

Apple has asked a federal court in California to let its own forensic experts review device images used in its trade-secrets lawsuit against OpenAI and related defendants, and to compel early production of documents tied to parts of OpenAI’s consumer-hardware research, according to coverage of a joint expedited-discovery filing made public this week.

9to5Mac (opens in new tab) reported that in the joint submission Apple says its forensic expert has already identified what it calls critical flaws in the defendants’ analysis of devices linked to former Apple engineer Chang Liu, including failures to locate files on a Mac mini and incorrect conclusions drawn from zero-byte files or empty last-used metadata. Apple argues direct access to the forensic images is needed to check for further errors. OpenAI has opposed unrestricted access and proposed a neutral forensic expert under a jointly agreed protocol, 9to5Mac (opens in new tab) said.

On hardware discovery, Apple is seeking expedited records related to OpenAI development of metal finishes, power management, and battery functionality, arguing defendants put those topics at issue by claiming independent development. OpenAI called the demand overbroad, premature, and “an apparent attempt to snoop on a competitor,” according to quotes in 9to5Mac (opens in new tab) and MacObserver. The MacObserver account likewise framed the fight as Apple pressing for deeper access to OpenAI hardware research while disputing Liu-device forensics; the court has not ruled that trade secrets were stolen.

The July lawsuit alleges former Apple employees, OpenAI, and io Products misappropriated confidential Apple hardware information. Defendants deny wrongdoing. 9to5Mac (opens in new tab) noted related disputes over a preliminary injunction, broader device images, LINE chat logs, and interview materials. Mixed-News (opens in new tab) reported that Judge Edward J. Davila sought the joint filing after a Sept. 14 status conference; that both sides refer to an Oct. 14 hearing on Apple’s preliminary-injunction request, which Apple wants the images ahead of; and that as of the outlet’s reporting the public docket carried no order resolving the discovery fight.