Apple and Jon Prosser Coordinate Deposition in iOS 26 Leak Case
In a significant development within the ongoing legal battle over the iOS 26 leaks, Apple and tech commentator Jon Prosser are actively coordinating a deposition. This move marks a pivotal step in Apple’s lawsuit against Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti, both accused of misappropriating trade secrets and violating the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
Background of the Case
The controversy began in July 2025 when Apple initiated legal proceedings against Prosser and Ramacciotti. The tech giant alleged that Ramacciotti unlawfully accessed a development iPhone belonging to Apple employee Ethan Lipnik. During this unauthorized access, Ramacciotti reportedly conducted a FaceTime call with Prosser, showcasing features of the then-unreleased iOS 26, notably its Liquid Glass redesign.
Apple’s lawsuit detailed that Prosser recorded this call, capturing confidential information about iOS 26. He subsequently disseminated this material through his YouTube channel, Front Page Tech, profiting from ad revenue generated by these leaks. The company emphasized the lengths it goes to protect its trade secrets and the detrimental impact such leaks can have on its competitive edge.
Legal Proceedings and Developments
Following the lawsuit’s initiation, the legal trajectories of the defendants diverged. Ramacciotti engaged with the legal process, requesting extensions and eventually responding to Apple’s allegations. He admitted to accessing Lipnik’s iPhone but denied any conspiracy with Prosser. Notably, court documents revealed that Prosser paid Ramacciotti $650 after the FaceTime call, though Ramacciotti claimed there was no prior agreement for payment in exchange for the information.
Prosser, on the other hand, missed the deadline to respond to Apple’s complaint. This inaction led the court to enter a default judgment against him in October 2025, effectively forfeiting his right to contest the allegations formally. Despite this, Prosser stated that he had been in active communication with Apple since the early stages of the case, contradicting reports of his non-engagement.
Current Status: Coordinating the Deposition
As of February 2026, Apple and Prosser are working together to schedule his deposition. This coordination indicates a shift towards more direct involvement from Prosser in the legal proceedings. The deposition aims to uncover the extent of the confidential information accessed and disseminated, which will be crucial in determining potential damages and remedies.
In a joint status report filed by Apple and Ramacciotti’s legal team, it was noted that Apple served Prosser with document and deposition subpoenas. Prosser acknowledged receipt of these subpoenas, and both parties are collaborating to set a date for his deposition. This development suggests a move towards resolving the case, with Prosser’s testimony expected to shed light on the events leading to the leaks and the subsequent dissemination of information.
Implications and Industry Impact
This case underscores the challenges tech companies face in safeguarding proprietary information. The unauthorized disclosure of trade secrets can have significant repercussions, affecting product launches, competitive positioning, and consumer trust. Apple’s proactive legal stance reflects its commitment to protecting its intellectual property and deterring future leaks.
For content creators and tech commentators, this lawsuit serves as a cautionary tale about the legal boundaries concerning confidential information. While reporting on leaks can attract substantial audience interest, it also carries the risk of legal consequences, especially when it involves unauthorized access to proprietary data.
Conclusion
The coordination of Jon Prosser’s deposition marks a critical juncture in the iOS 26 leak case. As the legal process unfolds, the tech industry will be watching closely, recognizing the broader implications for information security, journalistic practices, and the protection of trade secrets in an era where information dissemination is rapid and widespread.
