Apple has filed a lawsuit in Northern California against former employee Chen Shi, Chinese smartphone maker OPPO, and affiliated entity InnoPeak Technology, alleging misappropriation of trade secrets related to Apple Watch development.
The case centers on claims that Shi unlawfully transferred confidential data to OPPO upon leaving Apple, prompting a legal battle over intellectual property rights and corporate ethics.
Apple’s Allegations
Apple asserts that Chen Shi, who served as a Sensor System Architect from January 2020 to June 2025, conspired to steal proprietary information during his exit from the company.
According to the complaint, Shi misled Apple about his post-resignation plans, claiming he was returning to China to care for elderly parents while secretly joining OPPO.
Apple alleges that Shi exploited his final weeks at the company to gather sensitive data, including Apple Watch design documents, internal specifications, and product roadmaps.
The lawsuit claims that Shi intended to share this information with OPPO and InnoPeak, where he now leads a team focused on sensing technology.
Evidence Cited
The legal filing details several actions taken by Shi:
- Downloaded 63 protected files from Apple’s Box folder to a USB drive three days before departure.
- Engaged in a series of one-on-one technical briefings with Apple Watch team members during his final days at Apple.
- Performed online searches related to wiping MacBook data and hiding evidence of file access.
- Sent internal messages to OPPO indicating intent to “collect as much information as possible,” specifically referencing heart rate sensing methods.
These actions, according to Apple, reflect a calculated and collaborative attempt to exploit confidential information.
OPPO’s Response
In a statement on August 23, OPPO acknowledged the lawsuit but denied any wrongdoing. The company said:
We have found no evidence establishing any connection between these allegations and the employee’s conduct during his employment at OPPO.
OPPO emphasized its respect for corporate trade secrets and pledged full cooperation with the legal process, expressing confidence that judicial proceedings would clarify the facts.
Legal Remedies Sought
Apple is seeking:
- An injunction preventing OPPO, InnoPeak, and Shi from using or disclosing Apple’s trade secrets
- Restitution for damages incurred
- Punitive damages
- Attorney’s fees
The lawsuit aims to halt any further use of the allegedly stolen data and recover losses tied to the breach.
Broader Implications
This case underscores growing tensions around intellectual property protection in the global tech sector. It raises questions about cross-border employment transitions, corporate data security, and the legal accountability of foreign entities operating in U.S. jurisdictions.
The outcome may set precedents for how trade secret cases involving multinational firms are prosecuted and defended. As the legal process unfolds, further details may emerge that clarify the scope and impact of the alleged misconduct.