Lux Optics CEO files lawsuit against co-founder for alleged financial misconduct and theft of source code
Here's what it means for you.
This lawsuit could impact future tech partnerships and intellectual property practices in the industry.
What happened
Ben Sandofsky, CEO of Lux Optics, filed a lawsuit against former co-founder Sebastiaan de With for alleged financial misconduct and theft of proprietary source code.
The Context
- Financial Misconduct Allegations: De With is accused of misusing over $150,000 in corporate funds for personal expenses, leading to his termination in December 2025.
- Intellectual Property Concerns: The lawsuit claims de With took confidential materials related to the Halide app's future features when he joined Apple’s design team.
- Failed Acquisition Talks: Lux Optics had previously engaged in acquisition discussions with Apple in summer 2025, which did not materialize, creating internal tensions.
The Number
— This figure represents the amount of corporate funds allegedly misused, highlighting the financial stakes involved in tech startups and their governance.
Takeaway
As the lawsuit unfolds, it may set precedents for how tech companies handle intellectual property and employee transitions.
Consumer tech and culture with frequent AI coverage.
"Influential tech outlet covering AI products and policy."
— A47 Editor
Halide co-founder is suing former partner for bringing source code to Apple
Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of Lux Optics and creator of the popular photography app Halide, is suing his former partner for allegedly bringing the app's source code to Apple after joining the tech giant in January. This legal action highlights co...
Tech news, reviews, and analysis of consumer electronics, science, art, and culture.
"The Verge is a technology-focused media outlet known for in-depth reporting, product reviews, and coverage of the intersection between technology and culture."
— A47 Editor
Halide co-founder is suing former partner for bringing source code to Apple
Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of Lux Optics and creator of the popular photography app Halide, is suing his former partner for allegedly bringing the app's source code to Apple after joining the tech giant in January. This legal action highlights co...
Covers consumer technology, electronics, gadgets, and product reviews.
"Engadget is a trusted source for gadget reviews and consumer tech news, known for its hands-on analysis and industry coverage."
— A47 Editor
Apple considered buying Halide to upgrade its native Camera app
Apple was reportedly in acquisition talks with Lux Optics, the developer of the Halide camera app, in the summer of 2025, aiming to enhance its native Camera app. However, these discussions ended without a deal in September of the same year. The lega...
Curated tech headlines including AI stories.
"Influential aggregator surfacing the day’s top tech/AI links."
— A47 Editor
CEO of Halide-maker Lux Optics, Ben Sandofsky, sues his co-founder Sebastiaan de With, now on Apple's design team, alleging improper use of funds and stolen IP (Aaron Tilley/The Information)
Ben Sandofsky, CEO of Lux Optics, has filed a lawsuit against his co-founder Sebastiaan de With, who is currently part of Apple's design team. The lawsuit alleges improper use of funds and theft of intellectual property, highlighting a significant ri...