OpenAI's legal strategy in the trade secrets dispute with Apple hinges on a surprising pivot: instead of disputing what its engineers accessed, it argues Apple's own lax security undermines the case. The motion to dismiss, filed alongside new exhibits, shifts the blame onto Apple's offboarding and internal safeguards. Main Developments Apple's July complaint accuses OpenAI of orchestrating a scheme to steal confidential hardware information from former Apple engineers. This week, Apple requested expedited discovery, citing an internal investigation that suggests additional ex-employees may have participated in or witnessed the alleged theft. OpenAI counters that Apple's security practices and offboarding procedures weaken the claim that the information qualifies as legally protected trade secrets. The motion's exhibits lay bare this defense, focusing on procedural gaps rather than the substance of the allegations. Read also: eBay's Live Shopping Push Pays Off with Record Q2 Growth Background The lawsuit stems from OpenAI's hiring of former Apple engineers, a common talent flow in tech. Trade secrets law requires companies to actively protect confidential data; Apple's failure to do so, OpenAI argues, voids that protection. The case now hinges on whether Apple's measures met legal standards. Why It Matters This dispute tests how courts apply trade secrets protections in an era of frequent talent poaching. A ruling favoring OpenAI could embolden companies to relax security, knowing litigation may fail. Conversely, Apple's push for expedited discovery signals it believes the evidence is strong. What's Next The court will rule on OpenAI's motion to dismiss and Apple's expedited discovery request. If discovery proceeds, additional former employees could be deposed, potentially expanding the scope of the case. A decision on the motion may come within weeks.