Apple has initiated legal action in Northern California, accusing Jon Prosser of stealing trade secrets and breaching the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Here’s a detailed overview.
If you keep up with tech rumors, you may recall how Prosser had been leaking information regarding iOS 26 (initially referred to as iOS 19) since January. His leaks included a reimagined Camera app and several videos showcasing updates related to what became the Liquid Glass redesign.
Apple Notified About the Leak in April
In the lawsuit (as reported by MacRumors), Apple recounts how it learned that Michael Ramacciotti, another defendant, had illegally accessed an Apple employee’s Development iPhone while staying at his residence. According to Apple, Ramacciotti tracked the employee’s movements, gained access to his passcode, and infiltrated the Development iPhone, which was inadequately secured per company policies. During a video call with Prosser, he displayed various features of the unreleased iOS 19.
Ramacciotti claims that Prosser proposed this plan and promised payment if he could gain access to the Development iPhone for Prosser to exploit Apple’s confidential material. Allegedly, Prosser recorded the call, kept the videos, and disseminated them, including sharing them with someone who recognized the employee’s apartment in the footage. Prosser reportedly profited from these leaked trade secrets through multiple videos shared on his business’s YouTube channel.
Apple’s Requests from the Court
Apple is seeking a jury trial to determine potential injunctive and punitive damages if victorious. Their requests include:
- Judgment in favor of Apple against defendants on all claims;
- Injunctive relief as deemed appropriate;
- Compensation amount to be established at trial;
- Punitive damages due to willful misappropriation of trade secrets;
- Order preventing defendants from using or disclosing Apple’s confidential information without consent;
- Interest on damages arising from the defendants’ wrongful actions;
- Recovery of reasonable legal fees and costs;
- Any other relief the Court finds just.
Response from Prosser
Prosser has responded on X, contesting Apple’s narrative and providing his version of events regarding the acquisition of the iOS 26 interface. More developments are expected soon, and we will report on this evolving situation.
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