Apple’s AI Chief Steps Down Amid Siri Setbacks and Google Hire

Apple’s top artificial intelligence executive has left the company. John Giannandrea stepped down from his role this week. He had led Apple’s AI and machine learning efforts since 2018.His departure follows a difficult period for Apple’s AI initiatives. The company named a former Google and Microsoft engineer as his replacement. This signals a major shift in strategy.

Amar Subramanya Takes Over Challenging Role

Amar Subramanya is the new head of AI at Apple. He spent 16 years at Google before a stint at Microsoft. Subramanya most recently led engineering for Google’s Gemini Assistant.His deep knowledge of rival AI systems is seen as a key asset. He will report directly to Apple’s software chief, Craig Federighi. The appointment is effective immediately, though Giannandrea will advise through spring.According to Bloomberg, Giannandrea’s influence had been waning for months. Key projects like Siri were removed from his oversight earlier this year. The company’s robotics division was also reassigned.

Apple Intelligence’s Rocky Launch Prompted Change

Apple’s public AI push, called Apple Intelligence, has faced significant problems. It launched in October 2024 to underwhelming reviews. Several high-profile errors damaged its credibility.A notification summary feature repeatedly generated false headlines. The BBC complained twice about incorrect reports. One false story involved a high-profile criminal case.Internally, development was reportedly troubled. A Bloomberg investigation detailed organizational dysfunction. Testing just weeks before a planned Siri overhaul revealed core features did not work.The Siri delay triggered class-action lawsuits from iPhone 16 buyers. They were promised an AI assistant that was not delivered. This created a major public relations challenge.Apple’s approach has emphasized on-device processing for privacy. This limits model size compared to cloud-based rivals. The company now reportedly plans to use Google’s Gemini to power future Siri versions.

Tom Hardy Reveals Years of Stunt Work Led to Severe Injuries

The leadership change marks a critical juncture for Apple’s AI future. Replacing its AI chief with a Google veteran highlights the scale of the challenge. Apple must now prove its unique approach can compete in the fast-moving artificial intelligence race.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is replacing John Giannandrea at Apple?

Amar Subramanya is the new head of AI. He is a former Google and Microsoft executive. His experience with competing AI systems like Gemini was a key factor in the hire.

Why did Apple’s AI chief step down?

His departure follows a series of setbacks for Apple’s AI division. The problematic launch of Apple Intelligence and delays to the new Siri created internal pressure. Reports indicated his responsibilities had already been reduced.

What problems did Apple Intelligence have?

Its notification feature generated false and embarrassing headlines. Key Siri features promised for the iPhone 16 were not ready. The launch delays led to customer lawsuits and negative reviews.

How does Apple’s AI strategy differ from Google’s?

Apple focuses on processing data directly on your device for privacy. Google and others often use powerful cloud servers. Apple’s method can limit the complexity of tasks its AI can handle.

Will Apple use Google’s AI technology?

Reports indicate Apple may license Google’s Gemini model. This would help power a future version of Siri. It would be a significant partnership between the long-time rivals.