A federal judge just said OpenAI must turn over records about how it interviewed former Apple workers. 

OpenAI has five days to hand over materials it has already gathered. Anything else tied to this request is due within 14 days.

The ruling came on October 13, 2026, after Apple sued OpenAI in July. The suit centers on claims of stolen trade secrets. 

Now the court has agreed to let Apple review certain hiring materials early. 

These records cover interviews with ex-Apple employees who applied for jobs in OpenAI’s consumer hardware and robotics teams. 

For context, OpenAI is widely rumored to be getting ready to launch its first hardware device.

Documents

Apple could get interview checklists, guides, and instructions. It could also see manuals, scripts, and technical presentations.

Even more important, Apple may see records showing that interview talks touched on Apple technology or parts. That’s the kind of detail that could make or break a trade secrets case.

The judge, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila, also said Apple can see private LINE messages. LINE is a messaging app. 

The messages are between people named in the case, including OpenAI employees Chang Liu and Alyssa Peng.

He also approved three depositions. A deposition is when someone answers questions under oath. 

The three people are Liu, Peng, and Tang Yew Tan, OpenAI’s chief hardware officer, who all used to work at Apple.

Apple’s Lawsuit

Apple claims former employees hired by OpenAI used Apple laptops to download private files. Those files allegedly held details on unannounced tech, features, and products. 

Think technical specs, engineering slides, and private project data. Apple also claims that ex-Apple staff now at OpenAI coached others. 

They allegedly told people thinking about leaving Apple what information to bring to their interviews.

These are allegations that the court has not ruled on whether they’re true.

This case isn’t just about paperwork but about personal tech. OpenAI is building a consumer hardware device. 

If AI becomes a daily part of how people use apps and services, that device could one day compete with the iPhone. It might even challenge smartphones as a whole. 

Apple didn’t win everything, however. The judge turned down its request for fast access to OpenAI’s research and development in Metal finishes and power management.

He also said no to several others. Apple wanted OpenAI’s hardware research. It also wanted details on what former employees built while at OpenAI. Those requests didn’t pass.

Yet, the judge left room for Apple to try again. If Apple narrows its requests, the court may take another look.