Apple AI Exodus Deepens as Lead Robotics Researcher Joins Meta

Apple’s lead artificial intelligence researcher for robotics is leaving the company. Jian Zhang has joined Meta’s Robotics Studio. The move was confirmed on Tuesday.

This continues a significant brain drain from Apple’s AI division. At least a dozen AI experts have departed since January. Many are joining rivals like Meta and OpenAI.

Meta’s Aggressive Hiring and Apple’s AI Struggles

Meta is actively poaching top AI talent from Apple. The company is offering massive compensation packages that are hard to match. According to Bloomberg, Meta lured Apple’s Foundational Models team lead with a deal worth millions.

Jian Zhang was developing automation technology at Apple. His work explored the role of AI in future tech products. His team was separate from the group working on a robot virtual assistant.

Three other AI researchers are also leaving Apple. They are headed to leading AI firms OpenAI and Anthropic. This exodus from Apple’s Foundation Models team began in July.

A Crisis of Confidence in Apple’s AI Future

Industry recruiters see the departures as a major problem. A Financial Times report suggests it indicates a “crisis of confidence.” There are concerns about the direction and pace of Apple’s AI development.

The company had a serious misstep with its Apple Intelligence launch. The smarter Siri powered by a large language model was delayed. It failed to make it into the initial iOS 18 release.

Apple is now working on a second-generation Siri architecture. Software chief Craig Federighi confirmed the project in an August meeting. Major improvements to Siri are expected in 2026.

The company is also considering a third-party AI solution. It has held talks with OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google. This internal wavering has created tension within Apple’s own AI teams.

The ongoing talent loss threatens Apple’s competitive edge in artificial intelligence. Securing top researchers is crucial for innovation. Apple must stabilize its teams to deliver on its AI promises.

Info at your fingertips

Why are so many AI researchers leaving Apple?

Industry reports indicate Meta is offering vastly superior compensation packages. There also appears to be internal uncertainty about Apple’s AI strategy and timeline.

What does this mean for Apple’s AI projects?

The loss of key personnel could delay development of core AI features. This includes the next-generation Siri and other robotics and automation initiatives.

When is Apple’s new Siri expected to launch?

Apple executives have stated a major Siri overhaul is coming in 2026. The company is developing a second-generation architecture for its voice assistant.

Is Apple building its own AI or using another company’s?

Apple has not yet decided. Reports confirm it is in discussions with OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google about potentially licensing their technology for Siri.

How many AI experts have left Apple this year?

According to reliable news sources, at least a dozen AI researchers and engineers have departed Apple since January. The majority have joined Meta or OpenAI.

Trusted Sources: Bloomberg, Financial Times