Blitz Bureau
Apple has filed a lawsuit against well-known tech YouTuber Jon Prosser, accusing him of stealing trade secrets and violating US computer fraud laws. The case, filed in the Northern District of California, involves early leaks of iOS 26 — previously known by its codename iOS 19 — and details how confidential software features may have been accessed and shared months before Apple’s official announcement.
How the leak happened
According to Apple’s complaint, first reported by MacRumors, the issue began in April when Apple received a tip that a development device had been compromised. The company alleges that Michael Ramacciotti, also named in the lawsuit, tracked Apple employee Ethan Lipnik’s location to find a time when Lipnik was away from home. Ramacciotti then reportedly used Lipnik’s passcode to unlock his development iPhone, which contained unreleased iOS 19 software.
Jon Prosser accused of leaking details of iOS 26 on his channel by recording a video call
Apple claims Ramacciotti made a video call to Prosser during this break-in and showed him the confidential software. Prosser allegedly recorded the video call using screen capture tools and later used some of that footage in a YouTube video. Apple says the video helped Prosser earn ad revenue while exposing private details from the development software.
Apple’s legal filing also says that Prosser supported the act by promising to help arrange payment for Ramacciotti. The company added that some viewers were able to identify Lipnik’s apartment in the leaked content, which added to the credibility of its claims.
Apple further stated that it does not yet know whether Prosser has additional confidential material from the device, which reportedly held other unreleased design elements.
What Apple is asking
Apple is seeking a jury trial. It wants the court to order Prosser and Ramacciotti to return or destroy any confidential material they may still have. The company is also demanding financial compensation in the form of compensatory and punitive damages. Additionally, Apple wants an order that prevents both individuals from using or sharing any of its trade secrets.
Apple has already fired Lipnik. According to the company, he had no idea how his how his phone was compromised until others informed him after seeing the leaked video.
Prosser’s response
Jon Prosser addressed the lawsuit in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He denied the charges and shared his version of events.
“For the record: This is not how the situation played out on my end. Luckily have receipts for that,” he said.
“I did not “plot” to access anyone’s phone. I did not have any passwords. I was unaware of how the information was obtained. Looking forward to speaking with Apple on this,” Prosser said on X.
The court is yet to settle the date for the trial.