Apple has filed a federal lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the company of stealing its trade secrets through the hiring of former employees. The suit claims that at least two long-time Apple workers who joined OpenAI allegedly emailed themselves sensitive internal information.

Drew Pusateri, an OpenAI spokesman, dismissed the allegations, saying the company is 'focused on building innovative technology'. Nevertheless, it represents a significant rift between Apple and OpenAI, which previously praised Tim Cook, formerly of Apple's board.

Along with its employees, Apple is also suing io Products, founded by Jony Ive, and two senior engineers who now work at OpenAI. Apple alleges that these individuals provided OpenAI with access to 'sensitive projects' and unreleased products, allowing the company to glean crucial information about Apple's product plans.

OpenAI is set to release its first hardware product and plans to go public this year. Apple claims that because of the alleged misconduct, its 'nascent hardware business now rests on the shakiest of foundations'.