- By Alex David
- Sat, 19 Jul 2025 05:26 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Apple has filed a lawsuit against well-known tech leaker Jon Prosser, accusing him of orchestrating the theft of trade secrets related to iOS 26. According to the complaint, Prosser allegedly worked with Michael Ramacciotti to access a development iPhone belonging to Ethan Lipnik, an Apple software engineer. The device contained unreleased features of iOS 26, which were later showcased in Prosser’s videos on his YouTube channels Front Page Tech and Genius Bar Podcast.
Apple claims Prosser used leaked information to publish detailed renders and videos, some of which garnered millions of views. The company is now seeking damages and a court order to prevent further disclosures of its trade secrets.
What Apple Alleges in the Lawsuit
Apple’s legal filing details a series of events it claims led to the leaks:
- Prosser allegedly offered money or a job opportunity to Ramacciotti in exchange for access to Lipnik’s development iPhone.
- Ramacciotti is accused of using location tracking to determine when Lipnik would be away, then accessing the phone.
- The unreleased iOS build was shown to Prosser over a video call, which Prosser allegedly recorded and shared with others.
- Apple received an anonymous email in April 2025 that described Prosser’s involvement and even recognised Lipnik’s apartment in the video call recording.
- A voice note from Ramacciotti apologising to Lipnik—blaming Prosser for the idea—was also submitted to Apple as evidence.
Apple subsequently fired Lipnik for failing to secure the iOS software on his device.
Prosser’s Response to Apple’s Claims
Prosser has strongly denied the allegations on social media, posting on X:
“For the record: This is not how the situation played out on my end. Luckily I have receipts for that.”
He insists he had no passwords, no direct access, and was unaware of how the leaked information was obtained. Prosser also stated:
“I did not ‘plot’ to access anyone’s phone… Looking forward to speaking with Apple on this.”
His response suggests he intends to present evidence that challenges Apple’s claims during legal proceedings.
Why Apple Is Targeting Jon Prosser
Apple is accusing Prosser of benefiting from confidential information obtained without authorisation. The lawsuit claims:
- Ramacciotti shared unreleased iOS 26 features with Prosser via a FaceTime call, which was allegedly recorded.
- Prosser used this footage to create visual renders that were showcased in videos, including the redesigned Camera and Messages apps and the new Liquid Glass design language.
- Apple asserts that the leaked development device still contains other undisclosed trade secrets, posing ongoing security risks.
Through the filing, Apple is pursuing both a permanent injunction against disclosure and damages while simultaneously seeking to restrain Prosser from any further use or disclosure of confidential Apple information.
What's Next For Jon Prosser?
Apple's critics and commentators have remarked that Prosser, with his updates, was not part of any scam to obtain information; instead, he relies on direct sources who update him. That is the basis of this controversy that has split public opinion: some justify Prosser’s reporting, while others are asking themselves how much of his leaks aligned with the actual iOS 26 release.
This lawsuit is active now, and from the information gathered, it seems that the missing information is whether Apple can justify that Prosser intentionally capitalised on the use of trade secrets. If they do, then it is those companies that will have a harder time chasing leakers.
I Think….
Apple going after Jon Prosser is one of the company's most forward strikes against a prominent leaker. With parts of iOS 26 publicly available and other features concealed, Apple seeks to maintain its competitive advantage. On the other hand, Prosser is preparing a self-defence, claiming to have evidence disproving Apple's claim. As the legal dispute progresses, this case could change the course of technology news reporting, leaks, and the company's famously cloistered corporate culture.
