Judge orders OpenAI to turn over hiring records in Apple trade secrets case
techcrunch ·
A U.S. judge has ordered OpenAI to provide Apple with expedited access to hiring records related to former employees who joined the AI company's consumer hardware and robotics divisions. The court ruled that Apple can view interview materials, including checklists and scripts, as well as private LINE messages between specific individuals involved in the case. This decision supports Apple's lawsuit alleging that OpenAI engaged in a pattern of trade secret theft from its former staff. While the judge granted these specific discovery requests, he denied broader attempts to access OpenAI's research and development data on topics like metal finishes and power management. The ruling allows for depositions of three former Apple employees now working at OpenAI, including its chief hardware officer. Apple claims that former employees used company resources to download confidential information before moving to OpenAI. The case arises amid rumors that OpenAI is developing a new hardware device intended to compete with smartphones. Although some of Apple's broader requests were rejected, the judge left room for the company to resubmit narrowed proposals.
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