Apple Wins Default Judgment Against Prosser in iPhone Leak Case

Court grants Apple's claims after tech leaker fails to respond to lawsuit over iOS 26 details

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Apple has secured a default judgment against tech leaker Jon Prosser in a lawsuit stemming from the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information about the company's upcoming iOS 26 operating system. The legal action centers around allegations that Prosser and an associate gained access to a development iPhone and subsequently leaked details about the 'Liquid Glass' redesign and other features.

Why it matters

The lawsuit highlights Apple's aggressive stance against leaks, which CEO Tim Cook has publicly condemned as a violation of the company's trust. The outcome could set a precedent for future legal actions against leakers and those who facilitate the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information.

The details

According to court documents, Apple accused Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti of conspiring to access a development iPhone owned by a former Apple employee. Ramacciotti allegedly provided Prosser with access to the device, allowing him to view iOS 26 and create and publish renders of unreleased features. Apple maintains that Prosser used the stolen information to generate content for his platforms, effectively profiting from the misappropriation of trade secrets.

  • In July 2025, Apple initiated the lawsuit against Prosser and Ramacciotti.
  • In March and April 2025, Prosser published renders of unreleased iOS 26 features, including a redesigned Messages app and the 'Liquid Glass' interface.
  • Last month, Prosser leaked renders of the iPhone 18 Pro, continuing his pattern of sharing information about unreleased Apple products.

The players

Jon Prosser

A tech leaker who was accused by Apple of gaining unauthorized access to a development iPhone and leaking details about the company's upcoming iOS 26 operating system.

Michael Ramacciotti

An associate of Prosser who was allegedly involved in the conspiracy to access the development iPhone and facilitate the leaks.

Ethan Lipnik

A former Apple employee who allegedly provided Ramacciotti with access to the development iPhone.

Tim Cook

The CEO of Apple, who has publicly condemned the practice of leaking confidential information from the company.

Apple

The technology company that filed the lawsuit against Prosser and Ramacciotti over the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information about iOS 26.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.