Apple filed a trade secrets lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that former Apple employees shared confidential information to aid OpenAI’s hardware development. OpenAI said it is unaware of any merit in the claim.

The complaint, filed in a California court last week, names former Apple hardware chief Tang Tan among alleged recipients of trade secrets and seeks injunctive relief and damages. Apple says the alleged misconduct could delay OpenAI’s plans for a mobile smart speaker and other hardware products.

Discussing the case on TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, Sean O’Kane said the suit may cause delays for OpenAI’s hardware initiatives and could affect the company’s upcoming IPO, which it has filed confidentially and may pursue as early as the end of this year. He noted that OpenAI’s current business is primarily software.

Anthony Ha pointed out that more than 400 former Apple employees now work at OpenAI, representing a significant talent drain. The allegations remain unverified pending discovery. Kirsten Korosec suggested that OpenAI may prefer a quick settlement to avoid further reputational risk, though she also said the company could be prepared to endure a trial similar to its recent victory over Elon Musk.

The lawsuit is ongoing, and its resolution could influence OpenAI’s hardware strategy and the valuation of its prospective IPO.