In a decisive legal maneuver, lawyers for Elon Musk have asked a U.S. judge to prevent OpenAI from obtaining documents from Meta Platforms related to Musk’s failed $97.4 billion bid to acquire OpenAI’s assets. The request was detailed in a recent court filing.Reuters
What’s Happening
- OpenAI’s Request: OpenAI is seeking access to Meta’s internal communications, including any discussions between Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk about the acquisition bid.
- Meta’s Position: Meta argues OpenAI should obtain these files directly from Musk or his AI firm, xAI, and thus has objected to producing the documents itself.
- Musk’s Defense: Musk’s legal team contends that OpenAI already possesses documents from him and xAI. They accuse OpenAI’s discovery process of overreach, claiming its scope is irrelevant to the trial’s current stage.
OpenAI Pushes Back
OpenAI insists its requests are targeted and narrowly scoped—spanning only specific weeks rather than years. Moreover, since some communications may have been verbal, OpenAI argues that depositions of Musk, his representatives, and any co-bidders are essential to uncover the truth
Broader Legal Context
- The dispute stems from Musk’s legal challenge to OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model. OpenAI has countered with accusations that Musk attempted to undermine the company through a sham takeover bid and public defamation.
- U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers has already ruled that Musk must face OpenAI’s allegations. The case is slated for a jury trial in spring 2026.
Why It Matters
| Key Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Access to Meta Documents | Could reveal whether Zuckerberg was privately involved in shaping or financing Musk’s bid. |
| Discovery Scope | The clash over document access highlights tensions around legal boundaries and trial relevance. |
| Impact on Trial | Depositions and documents may pivotally influence the jury’s view of Musk’s intent and actions. |
