Apple is facing challenges in keeping pace with AI competitors, and now, the company’s long-time head of artificial intelligence is stepping down.
John Gianandrea, who has been with Apple as the senior vice president of machine learning and AI strategy since 2018, has resigned. This decision comes after delays in a major AI update for the Siri voice assistant due to various bugs, which some insiders described as “ugly.”
Amar Subramanya, a veteran from Google and Microsoft, will take over as vice president of artificial intelligence at Apple. He will oversee the internal AI models, machine learning research, and the development of AI infrastructure, reporting directly to Craig Federighi, who heads the software division.
Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, commented on the transition, noting that AI has always been vital to Apple’s strategy. He expressed enthusiasm for bringing Subramanya’s expertise to the leadership team.
Cook also highlighted Federighi’s key role in advancing AI efforts, particularly in making Siri more personalized for users next year.
Apple announced on Monday that Gianandrea will act as an advisor until he fully departs the company in spring. His previous team will now report to Sabi Khan, the chief operating officer, and Eddie Cue, the head of services.
In the realm of AI, Apple has been trailing behind its major competitors in integrating AI into devices, including iPhones.
After the delay of the Siri update, Apple reassigned the responsibility for voice assistants and AI robotics to other executives, shifting focus away from Gianandrea’s teams.
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives remarked that this leadership change is timely, especially given the pressure on Apple to rejuvenate its AI development.
Ives noted that Subramanya should be able to attract the right talent as Apple’s AI strategy continues to evolve and external hires may become necessary.
In July, Cook mentioned Apple was significantly boosting its AI investments and was open to potential mergers and acquisitions to keep pace with competitors.
Meanwhile, the redesigned Siri is anticipated to launch by this spring.
On Tuesday, Apple shares saw a slight increase of about 1% following the announcement.
This leadership change also coincides with news that Apple is intensifying its succession planning to find a potential candidate to succeed Cook.
