Apple files a lawsuit against Jon Prosser for leaking iOS 26 details. Learn about the alleged trade secret violations and legal action.

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Apple Takes Legal Action Against Jon Prosser for iOS 26 Leaks

July 17, 2025 – Apple has filed a lawsuit against prominent tech YouTuber Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti, accusing them of unlawfully obtaining and leaking confidential details about iOS 26 before its official announcement.

The Leaks: What Happened?

Earlier this year, Prosser released a series of videos showcasing what he claimed were accurate renderings of Apple’s then-unreleased iOS update—initially speculated to be called iOS 19 but later unveiled as iOS 26 at WWDC in June.

• January Leak: Prosser revealed a redesigned Camera app with simplified controls for switching between photo and video modes.
• March Leak: On his Genius Bar podcast, he displayed a revamped Messages app featuring rounded navigation buttons and a keyboard with softer edges.
• April Leak: His final video offered a broader look at the “Liquid Glass” redesign, which matched many elements of iOS 26, including pill-shaped tab bars and glass-like UI enhancements.

While not every detail was exact, the leaks were strikingly close to Apple’s final design—something the company clearly didn’t overlook.

Apple’s Lawsuit: Key Allegations

According to Apple’s legal complaint, the leaks stemmed from a development iPhone owned by Ethan Lipnik, an Apple employee and friend of Ramacciotti. Apple alleges:

• Unauthorized Access: Prosser and Ramacciotti allegedly conspired to obtain Lipnik’s passcode and tracked his movements to access the iPhone when he was away.
• Financial Incentive: Prosser reportedly offered Ramacciotti payment in exchange for helping extract confidential iOS 26 details.
• FaceTime Recording: Ramacciotti allegedly made a FaceTime call to Prosser, showcasing iOS 26 on the development device. Prosser then screen-recorded the call and used the footage to create his “reconstructed” renders.

Apple claims the iPhone contained undisclosed trade secrets beyond what was leaked, raising concerns about further unauthorized disclosures.

Legal Consequences & Fallout

Apple is seeking:

• An injunction to prevent further leaks of confidential information.
• Financial damages for the alleged trade secret violations.

Meanwhile, Lipnik has been terminated for failing to secure the device and not reporting the breach—despite others recognizing his apartment in the leaked FaceTime call. Apple only learned of the incident through an anonymous tip.

FAQs

Q: Did Jon Prosser’s leaks accurately depict iOS 26?
A: Many design elements were correct, though some details, like the Camera app redesign, differed slightly.

Q: What legal action is Apple taking?
A: Apple filed a lawsuit to block further disclosures and recover damages for trade secret violations.

Q: What happened to the Apple employee involved?
A: Ethan Lipnik was fired for policy violations, including failing to report the security breach.

Final Thoughts

This case highlights Apple’s aggressive stance against leaks, especially when trade secrets are at risk. As the lawsuit unfolds, it could set a precedent for how tech companies handle unauthorized disclosures in the future.

Conclusion: Apple’s Legal Battle Over iOS 26 Leaks – What It Means for Tech Journalism

Apple’s lawsuit against Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti marks a significant escalation in the company’s crackdown on leaks. The case underscores Apple’s zero-tolerance policy toward unauthorized disclosures, especially when they involve unreleased software and proprietary trade secrets.

Why This Lawsuit Matters

1. Protecting Intellectual Property – Apple invests billions in R&D, and leaks undermine its competitive edge. By taking legal action, Apple sends a clear message: unauthorized access to confidential information will not be tolerated.
2. Impact on Tech Leakers & Journalists – Prosser’s case could set a legal precedent, making it riskier for insiders and influencers to share unreleased details. Future leakers may face not just termination (like Lipnik) but also lawsuits and financial penalties.
3. Ethics in Tech Reporting – While consumers crave early insights, this lawsuit raises questions about how far leakers should go to obtain information. Paid incentives and hacking allegations, as Apple claims, cross ethical boundaries.

What’s Next?

• Legal Proceedings – If Apple wins, Prosser and Ramacciotti could face hefty fines and be barred from sharing further confidential details.
• Industry-Wide Ripple Effects – Other tech giants may follow Apple’s lead, tightening security and pursuing legal action against leakers.
• Future of Tech Leaks – Will leaks dry up, or will anonymous sources find new ways to bypass security? The outcome of this case could reshape how insider information circulates.

Final Thoughts

Apple’s aggressive stance highlights the tension between corporate secrecy and public curiosity. While leaks generate buzz, they also risk legal consequences—proving that in the battle between tech giants and leakers, the law may have the final say.