Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging trade secret theft and breach of contract tied to former Apple employees, including Chief Hardware Officer Tang Tan, who allegedly used confidential Apple project information during OpenAI’s hiring process. The complaint also names former Apple engineer Chang Liu, accused of retaining an Apple-issued laptop and downloading confidential technical documents after joining OpenAI. Apple said the alleged misconduct reflects a broader pattern tied to OpenAI’s hardware ambitions, and is seeking a court order barring OpenAI from using or disclosing its trade secrets. OpenAI denied wrongdoing, stating it has no interest in other companies’ trade secrets.
Separately, OpenAI is expanding its consumer strategy by hiring a dedicated product manager focused on building AI experiences for families, caregivers and older adults, according to a job posting. The move comes as ChatGPT’s user base broadens beyond younger demographics, with usage among adults 35 and older rising significantly over the past year. Analysts said the hiring reflects a shift toward household-oriented AI products and growing attention to safety, particularly for younger users, following lawsuits alleging ChatGPT contributed to harm involving children. OpenAI has introduced several safety measures over the past year, including parental controls and features designed to detect signs of distress in conversations.
