A former Apple engineer is being accused of stealing Apple Watch trade secrets and leaking them to the Chinese tech company Oppo before his departure.
Apple Watch trade secrets allegedly copied to USB drive
In a new lawsuit, Apple claims that Dr. Chen Shi, a former sensor system architect, deliberately accessed and copied internal files related to the Apple Watch. According to court documents, Shi downloaded 63 confidential documents from a secure company folder and moved them onto a USB stick.
This activity came just before he left Apple to join Oppo, where he now leads a sensing technology team. Apple alleges that Shi also searched for ways to cover his tracks on his company-issued MacBook.
Oppo allegedly knew about the plan
Apple says Shi’s misconduct wasn’t done in secret. The lawsuit includes alleged messages from his Apple-issued work iPhone that show Oppo not only knew about his plan to take internal documents but supported it.
Shi reportedly messaged Oppo, saying he would “collect as much information as possible” before leaving. The company claims it found multiple signs Oppo approved the move and encouraged him to grab whatever internal files he could.
Apple Watch trade secrets tied to health sensor technology
Shi’s access to internal projects was extensive. Apple says he had a “front row seat” to health sensor development, including detailed roadmaps, design specs, and documents related to ECG technology. These weren’t just casual notes they were core to Apple’s wearable innovation pipeline.
Here’s what Shi allegedly accessed:
- Confidential design documents
- Sensor specifications
- Product development roadmaps
- Internal communications with engineers
Apple Watch trade secrets allegedly masked under false exit
In his resignation letter, Shi cited “personal and family reasons” for leaving. However, Apple claims its real motivation was professional and opportunistic. They say Shi had already lined up his new role at Oppo and used his final days at Apple to gather materials for his next job.
Apple wants accountability and answers
The company’s lawsuit doesn’t just target Shi; it’s a direct shot at Oppo as well. Apple argues the rival firm knowingly benefited from the information transfer, putting them in legal and ethical jeopardy. For now, Oppo hasn’t issued a response the press inquiry bounced back with a full inbox.
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