Apple accuses former engineer of transferring Apple Watch secrets to OPPO
The legal battle between Apple and one of its former engineers is back in the limelight. New documents filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California (San Jose) reveal allegations that Chen Shi, a former Apple engineer, transferred manufacturing secrets related to the Apple Watch to OPPO, the Chinese electronics giant.
Former Engineer Suspected of Technological Leak
Apple had previously filed a lawsuit in August, accusing Chen Shi of copying 63 confidential files containing sensitive information about Apple Watch sensor technology before leaving the company.
According to the new court report — a redacted public version —, Shi allegedly presented this information to OPPO employees during an internal event called “Oppo Talk” on August 1.
The presentation materials discovered by Apple suggested that a “former technical director from Apple” would reveal “the development of Apple’s sensor hardware.”
Apple claims that the slides used during this presentation contained data directly from the files Shi allegedly downloaded secretly before his departure.
OPPO Denies Allegations, While Apple Claims Non-Cooperation
For its part, OPPO insists that it found no evidence of data transfer and that Shi’s comments pertained only to “general engineering principles.” However, Apple counters that the Chinese company refuses to provide the documents and digital forensic reports requested by the court.
Worse still, the Cupertino company fears that Shi may have had time to delete evidence from OPPO’s servers after the lawsuit was filed. Apple is now asking the court to prohibit Shi from disclosing any further information and to order OPPO to halt any work on products utilizing its technology.
Request for Delay Due to Medical Reasons
Chen Shi, now employed by OPPO InnoPeak Technology, has agreed to be interviewed but is requesting a delay in his hearing, citing a medical issue worsened by stress. He is also requesting a protective order to limit the scope of the deposition.
The court has given OPPO until October 31 to submit the requested documents, or to begin a phased submission by October 28 if the volume is too large.
A Complex Case Reflecting Current Technological Tensions
This case highlights the growing rivalries in the high-tech industry, where the lines between innovation and imitation are becoming blurred. With Apple eager to defend its patents and OPPO denying any industrial espionage, this case could unfold over several months before reaching a resolution.
Whether it is a confirmed betrayal or a misunderstanding, this case underscores the strategic importance of design secrets — particularly surrounding biometric sensors — in the global technological war.
