YouTuber Jon Prosser has filed a formal response to Apple’s lawsuit over stolen iOS secrets. His defense? The other guy did it.
Prosser denied any conspiracy or coordinated scheme to injure Apple. But he did admit to recording a FaceTime call showing unreleased iOS software and splitting YouTube revenue with the person who showed him the info.
Apple’s lawsuit from last July claims Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti had a “coordinated scheme to break into an Apple development iPhone, steal Apple’s trade secrets, and profit from the theft.” Ramacciotti allegedly showed Prosser unreleased iOS features from a development iPhone belonging to an Apple employee during a FaceTime call.
Prosser’s filing says he was “unaware of who Ethan Lipnik was” — that’s the Apple employee — and didn’t know how Ramacciotti got the information. He admits Ramacciotti showed him “certain iOS features” but claims he didn’t know if iOS 19 was actually unreleased.
He also admitted to recording the call, taking screenshots, and sharing “a portion of the YouTube advertising revenue” with Ramacciotti after publishing the videos “in order to retain exclusive communication.” Once he learned how Ramacciotti got the info, Prosser says he cut off contact.
One line in the filing is pretty blunt: “Ramacciotti is completely responsible for the disclosure of Apple’s alleged trade secrets.” Prosser also argues Ramacciotti should indemnify him for all harm caused.
A default was previously entered against Prosser after he missed filing deadlines, but a judge set that aside last month and gave him 10 days to respond. Prosser is now requesting a jury trial.
