On July 12, Apple initiated legal action against OpenAI and its hardware subsidiary, io Products, alleging the misappropriation of trade secrets. The complaint specifically points to three individuals—Tang Tan, Chang Liu, and Yu-Ting "Alyssa" Peng—but notably excludes former Apple designer Jonathan Ive. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Ive's omission from the complaint stems primarily from his minimal involvement in the matter at hand. Furthermore, Ive's close personal ties with Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Steve Jobs, as well as the possible sway of her associated investments and backing, could also be contributing factors. Additionally, Apple is keen to sidestep any public uproar concerning shifts in the company's design standing that might arise from such a naming.
