Apple has filed a lawsuit against prominent tech leaker Jon Prosser, accusing him of stealing trade secrets tied to its next-generation mobile operating system, iOS 26, theverge reports.
The lawsuit claims that Prosser orchestrated a scheme to obtain sensitive information from an iPhone used by Apple engineer Ethan Lipnik for development purposes.
According to Apple, Prosser offered money or future employment to Michael Ramacciotti, a friend of Lipnik, in exchange for access to the unreleased iOS build. Ramacciotti allegedly discovered Lipnik’s passcode, tracked his location to find when he’d be away from home, and secretly accessed the development iPhone. He then shared the unreleased software with Prosser over a recorded video call. Prosser reportedly used this footage to create detailed leaks and visual renderings of the upcoming iOS features.
The alleged plot came to light in April after Apple received an anonymous tip from someone who claimed to have seen the video and recognized Lipnik’s apartment. Apple also obtained a voice note in which Ramacciotti reportedly apologized to Lipnik and blamed the incident on Prosser’s influence. Lipnik, though not accused of being involved in the leak, was fired for failing to secure Apple’s proprietary software properly.
Prosser had previously published a series of iOS-related leaks through his YouTube channels Front Page Tech and Genius Bar Podcast. These included major previews of the redesigned camera and Messages apps, as well as a showcase of Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” interface—all months before Apple officially announced iOS 26.
In response, Prosser posted on X (formerly Twitter), denying the allegations and asserting that Apple’s version of events is misleading. “I did not ‘plot’ to access anyone’s phone. I did not have any passwords. I was unaware of how the information was obtained,” he wrote, adding that he has evidence to support his side.
Apple is seeking damages and a court injunction to prevent Prosser from leaking or disclosing its confidential information in the future. Although iOS 26 has since been unveiled, Apple maintains that the development device may still contain other unreleased designs that remain at risk.
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