Dec 1, 2025 - Technology

Apple AI chief John Giannandrea to step down

Ina Fried

Three man in front of chairs on stage — Tim Cook, John Giannandrea and Craig Federighi during the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference. Photo: Bloomberg/Contributor via Getty

Apple AI chief John Giannandrea is retiring, the company said Monday. Amar Subramanya, a prominent AI researcher and former employee of Microsoft and Google, will join the company to lead its work in the field.

Why it matters: Apple outlined a bold strategy for Apple Intelligence but has struggled to deliver on key components, including modernizing its Siri assistant.

Driving the news: Apple said Giannandrea is stepping down from his role as senior VP of machine learning and AI strategy and will serve as an adviser before formally retiring next spring.

At the same time, Apple announced the hiring of Subramanya, a former Google researcher who joined Microsoft only four months ago, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Subramanya will lead Apple's research, model development and safety work and report to Craig Federighi, while the rest of Giannandrea's organization will report to two other executives — Sabih Khan and Eddy Cue.

What they're saying: Apple CEO Tim Cook thanked Giannandrea for his role in a statement.

"AI has long been central to Apple's strategy," Cook said.

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Apple AI chief John Giannandrea to step down

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