Apple Sues Jon Prosser Over iOS 26 Secrets Leak

Key Points

• Apple Sues Jon Prosser Over iOS 26 Secrets Leak
• Lawsuit reveals insider access to a developer’s iPhone
• Prosser denies wrongdoing, says he was unaware
• Apple seeks financial damages and legal restrictions

Apple has filed a lawsuit against popular tech YouTuber Jon Prosser, alleging that he helped steal and leak confidential iOS 26 design features ahead of its official release.

The company claims that Prosser worked through a third party to access an internal development iPhone and used the data to publish exclusive leaks.

The complaint names Michael Ramacciotti as the intermediary who exploited his friendship with Apple software engineer Ethan Lipnik.

According to the filing, Ramacciotti obtained Lipnik’s passcode, tracked his location, and accessed the device while Lipnik was away. The phone reportedly contained early builds of iOS 26, Apple’s next major software release.

For the record: This is not how the situation played out on my end. Luckily have receipts for that.

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. https://t.co/NSUlJPMbld

— jon prosser (@jon_prosser) July 18, 2025

Prosser allegedly watched a live video call showing the device and recorded the session to create his leaks. These appeared on his Front Page Tech and Genius Bar Podcast YouTube channels earlier in 2025, showing off redesigned elements like Messages, Camera, and the new “Liquid Glass” design language.

This kind of exclusive reveal is not new in the tech world. It mirrors the kind of surprise Apple might have aimed for with the iOS 26 launch, similar to how Google plans to surprise users with the Pixel 10 launch on August 20.

An anonymous email received by Apple in April included specific details about the leak and pointed to Lipnik’s apartment, which was seen in the background of the video. Apple also obtained a voice note from Ramacciotti apologizing to Lipnik and claiming the leak was Prosser’s idea.

Although Lipnik was not directly involved in the leak, Apple fired him for failing to properly safeguard the development device, highlighting how seriously the company takes internal security.

Apple says it learnt about the source of Prosser’s information from this anonymous email. Screenshot: Techtoken

Prosser Pushes Back Against Apple’s Claims

Jon Prosser quickly responded to the lawsuit via X, formerly Twitter. “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 posted. He also stated that Apple’s version of the story was inaccurate and that he had evidence to back up his defense.

Apple is suing YouTuber Jon Prosser 🍏

The company alleges that Prosser offered payment in exchange for iOS 26 leaks.

“This case arises from Defendants’ coordinated scheme to break into an Apple development iPhone, steal Apple’s trade secrets, and profit from the theft.” pic.twitter.com/SHcov3SO6F

— AppleTrack (@appltrack) July 18, 2025

While Prosser has a history of accurate Apple leaks, this time, the legal stakes are higher. Apple is seeking damages and a permanent injunction banning him from publishing or profiting from their trade secrets in the future.

The case draws attention to a rising trend of tech creators operating in legal gray areas, much like how some companies navigate tight regulations, like Nvidia’s China chip sales ban. In both cases, access to restricted technology or information can bring major consequences.

If Apple’s claims are upheld, it could create a major shift in how content creators approach leaks and previews. For years, creators like Prosser thrived by giving fans a sneak peek. But this lawsuit might signal the end of that era.

This guy lost his job at Apple because Jon Prosser allegedly plotted to steal trade secrets from his development iPhone running a prototype of iOS 26.

I don’t want to comment on developing legal battles, but if what Apple is claiming is true, then Jon is in deep trouble. pic.twitter.com/wmiqBQ5Tap

— AppleLeaker (@LeakerApple) July 18, 2025

Leak Culture and the Risks for Content Creators

The lawsuit against Prosser opens a wider conversation about leak culture in tech media. In a world driven by likes, views, and ad revenue, getting the first scoop can be incredibly lucrative. But that race to publish can also lead to ethically questionable behavior.

Prosser isn’t the only figure operating in this space. Creators now compete with AI-powered tools and insider tips, like Elon Musk’s Grok 4 AI, which recently set new records. With that pressure to stay ahead, the line between journalism and breach of confidentiality is getting blurrier.

Apple sues Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti over iOS 26 leaks, alleging a plot to access Apple employee’s iPhone for trade secrets; Prosser denies the claim (@eslivka / MacRumors)https://t.co/oiAXP8hecWhttps://t.co/8eR7CkCQQVhttps://t.co/ZOzeer1FAj

— Techmeme (@Techmeme) July 18, 2025

Apple’s lawsuit aims to reinforce that some information is off-limits, no matter how it’s obtained. Even if Prosser didn’t access the phone himself, Apple argues that using material gained through unethical means is still a violation.

This comes as the broader tech world is experiencing major changes. Hardware companies are shutting down unprofitable units, like Belkin’s recent decision to end its Wemo smart home platform, while others are betting big on innovation and expansion.

Meanwhile, Microsoft is making it easier for users to stream games with the launch of Xbox PC Game Streaming—a move that’s seen as a push to keep users in their ecosystem.

For creators like Prosser, the big question now is whether access and attention are worth the legal risk. If Apple wins this case, it may become harder for leakers to justify their method and easier for companies to track and prosecute those involved.

At the same time, some argue this kind of crackdown could limit transparency and hurt independent voices in tech media. It’s a delicate balance between protecting innovation and maintaining open discourse.

As the case unfolds, it’s likely to influence not just Apple’s internal culture but how the entire industry handles leaks, journalism, and responsibility in the digital age.