Apple and OpenAI are engaged in an escalating legal dispute over allegations that the ChatGPT maker stole Apple's hardware secrets. OpenAI has denied these claims, calling Apple's lawsuit a "witch hunt" and accusing Apple of trying to blame others for its own problems. Apple, in turn, has accused OpenAI of actively destroying evidence in the case. The two tech giants were once partners, collaborating on integrating ChatGPT into Apple devices in June 2024. However, signs of strain appeared around May 2025 when OpenAI acquired a startup founded by former Apple designer Jony Ive, signaling a move into hardware that traditionally belongs to Apple. Apple has struggled to keep pace in the AI race, recently partnering with Google for its AI features. The core of the conflict lies in Apple's July lawsuit, which alleges that OpenAI orchestrated an effort, involving former Apple employees, to obtain confidential information about unreleased products. Apple also claims OpenAI approached its partners with sensitive information. OpenAI maintains it did not seek Apple's secrets and defends employees' rights to change jobs. Apple requested a preliminary injunction to prevent OpenAI from using disputed information, which OpenAI opposed, seeking dismissal of the lawsuit. Apple wants the case to proceed to discovery, believing it will reveal the truth, while OpenAI argues Apple's own security lapses are to blame. A court hearing is scheduled for October 1.