Apple Inc. has initiated legal action against prominent tech leaker Jon Prosser and his co-defendant, Michael Ramacciotti, over allegations of misappropriation of trade secrets. The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California, centers on a series of YouTube videos released earlier this year that showcased mockups of what was initially anticipated to be called iOS 19, but is now known as iOS 26.
According to the court filing, which was acquired by MacRumors, Apple alleges that Prosser and Ramacciotti conspired to unlawfully access an Apple employee's development iPhone to extract valuable trade secrets. The employee in question, Ethan Lipnik, was involved in software design at Apple. The suit claims that Prosser had assured Ramacciotti he could find a way for him to receive payment if Ramacciotti successfully accessed Lipnik's development device.
Apple's allegations detail that Ramacciotti stayed at Lipnik’s residence and monitored his schedule. He reportedly utilized a location-tracking tool to confirm when Lipnik would be away for an extended period. During this absence, Ramacciotti allegedly gained access to Lipnik's iPhone and made a FaceTime call to Prosser to showcase the features and designs of iOS 26.
In a significant breach of confidentiality, Prosser reportedly used a screen capturing tool to record the video call and subsequently shared the footage with others to create mockups for his videos. Notably, one individual who viewed the footage recognized Lipnik’s apartment and informed him of the breach. In January, Prosser released a video on his Front Page Tech YouTube channel, featuring a render of an iOS 26 Camera app redesign that closely resembled Apple's actual design. He later displayed mockups of other redesigned apps, including the Messages app and the new Liquid Glass design language that Apple is adopting this year.
As a direct consequence of these events, Apple terminated Lipnik’s employment for his failure to protect confidential information. The lawsuit indicates that Lipnik acknowledged Ramacciotti often visited his home, where he observed Lipnik’s behaviors and security measures regarding his devices.
Apple asserts that it became aware of the alleged theft of trade secrets following an anonymous tip-off. Additionally, the company claims to possess a voice note from Ramacciotti, in which he apologizes to Lipnik and suggests that Prosser was behind the scheme. Apple emphasizes that the development iPhone contained a wealth of sensitive trade secret information that had not yet been disclosed to the public, leaving the extent of the information accessed by Prosser and Ramacciotti uncertain.
In its legal proceedings, Apple is seeking an injunction that would prevent both Prosser and Ramacciotti from utilizing or disclosing Apple’s confidential, proprietary, and trade secret information to third parties without written consent. Furthermore, Apple is demanding the destruction of any such materials in their possession and is pursuing damages alongside a request for a jury trial.
In response to the lawsuit, Jon Prosser took to X (formerly Twitter), asserting that the narrative presented by Apple is inaccurate. He expressed eagerness to discuss the matter with Apple, stating, “For the record: I certainly did not 'plot' to access anyone’s phone and was unaware of the situation playing out.”
This unfolding legal battle highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding trade secrets in the tech industry and raises important questions about the responsibilities of individuals handling confidential information.
