Apple has filed a lawsuit against YouTube tech blogger John Prosser and collaborator Michael Ramachotti, accusing them of stealing commercial secrets related to its upcoming iOS 26 operating system.
The controversy stems from January 2025, when Prosser unveiled renders of what he then dubbed iOS 19, which later turned out to be a remarkably accurate preview of iOS 26’s new Liquid Glass design featuring rounded elements and pill-shaped tab panels.
According to Apple’s claims, Prosser and Ramachotti gained unauthorized access to a company-issued iPhone belonging to employee Ethan Lipnik.
The duo allegedly uncovered Lipnik’s password, tracked his location, and waited for an opportunity when he was away from home for an extended period. Ramachotti then used FaceTime to show Prosser the iOS 26 interface on the device, with Prosser recording the call to create his renders.
The breach came to light through an anonymous tip to Apple, which included evidence of Lipnik’s apartment visible in the FaceTime recording. Lipnik has since been terminated for violating company security policies.
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Prosser has denied wrongdoing, stating he “was unaware of the situation” and is “eager to discuss the matter with Apple.” However, the precision of his leaks—especially regarding the interface’s innovative design — has raised eyebrows.
The Liquid Glass aesthetic evokes the spirit of Steve Jobs’ era, reminiscent of the iPhone 4, though this time it seems to have avoided a police raid. As the legal battle unfolds, the case highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting tech secrets in the age of social media influencers.
