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Apple Wins Clerk’s Default Against Jon Prosser in iOS 26 Trade‑Secrets Case

Prosser says he is in active talks with Apple, leaving open a bid to set aside the default.

Overview

  • Court records show Prosser missed the August 19 deadline to answer Apple’s July complaint, and a clerk entered default last week, allowing the case to proceed without his formal response.
  • Apple alleges that Michael Ramacciotti accessed ex-employee Ethan Lipnik’s development iPhone, video-called Prosser to display unreleased iOS features, and that Prosser recorded and disseminated the material.
  • Prosser disputes being unresponsive and previously denied plotting access or having passwords, saying he has been in communication with Apple and was unaware how the information was obtained.
  • Procedurally, Prosser can move to set aside the default by showing excusable neglect; absent that, the court could move toward a default judgment, though the multi-defendant case may delay final resolution.
  • Ramacciotti received an extension to respond until October 17 and remains an active defendant as Apple seeks injunctive relief, damages, and punitive damages, including an order restricting future disclosures.