Apple has filed a lawsuit in Northern California against Chen Shi, a former employee who joined Oppo, a Chinese smartphone company. The company claims Shi stole Apple Watch trade secrets.
Shi worked at Apple as a Sensor System Architect from January 2020 to June 2025. His position gave him access to Apple Watch designs, internal specifications, product roadmaps, and development documents.
According to Apple, Shi said he was returning to China to care for his elderly parents. He did not disclose that he accepted a position at Oppo.
During his final days at Apple, Shi allegedly attended numerous meetings with the Apple Watch technical team. Apple claims he collected sensitive information on ongoing research and development.
Three days before leaving, Shi downloaded 63 files from Apple’s protected Box folder and saved them to a USB drive. After this, he searched for ways to wipe a MacBook.
He also investigated whether someone could see if he opened a file on a shared drive. Apple says this shows Shi took deliberate steps to hide his actions.
Apple says Shi messaged his Oppo employers, stating he would “collect as much information as possible” to share with them. The information reportedly included heart rate sensing technology.
At Oppo, Shi now leads a team working on sensing technology. Apple claims the stolen information could give Oppo an unfair advantage in wearable technology.
Apple is seeking an injunction to prevent Shi and Oppo from using or sharing Apple trade secrets. The company also wants restitution, damages, and attorneys’ fees.
In a statement, Apple emphasized the importance of protecting trade secrets. A spokesperson said, “Our innovation is built on years of research, and we will defend it aggressively.”
This case highlights concerns about corporate espionage in the tech industry, especially in wearable devices. Apple Watch Series 10 is set for Prime Day 2025, making timing sensitive.
Apple’s lawsuit comes amid growing scrutiny of intellectual property protection in the U.S. and internationally. Companies are increasingly vigilant about former employees joining rivals.
Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how U.S. courts handle stolen technology cases involving foreign competitors.
Apple’s claims underline the risks associated with highly compensated employees who have access to critical development projects.
The Northern California court has yet to issue a ruling. The case is expected to continue through several months of discovery and legal filings.
Apple’s legal team is actively seeking both punitive damages and a court order to bar Oppo from using stolen materials.
The outcome may influence how tech companies structure exit protocols for employees with access to sensitive projects.
Apple Watch development relies on proprietary sensors and software, making trade secret protection crucial to market competitiveness.
The company’s action against Shi shows how seriously it views threats to innovation and the safeguarding of intellectual property.
Apple Inc v. Shi et. al. by MacRumors on Scribd
