Apple Replaces AI Head Amid Siri Delays and Intensifying Competition

• John Giannandrea, Apple’s AI head since 2018, is retiring next spring after overseeing key projects like Apple Intelligence.

• Amar Subramanya, formerly of Microsoft and Google’s DeepMind, will lead foundation models, machine learning research, and AI safety efforts.

• Apple shares have risen 16% in 2025, but lag behind competitors investing heavily in AI infrastructure and chips.

Apple AI leadership change: John Giannandrea steps down amid Siri delays. Discover how new VP Amar Subramanya will drive innovation. Stay ahead in tech updates—read now for insights on Apple’s AI future.

What is the Apple AI Leadership Change?

Apple AI leadership change involves John Giannandrea, the company’s senior vice president of machine learning and AI strategy, stepping down from his role effective immediately, with Amar Subramanya appointed as his successor. This transition, announced on Monday, reflects Apple’s efforts to address setbacks in its AI projects, including the delayed relaunch of Siri. Giannandrea will serve as an advisor until his retirement next spring, ensuring continuity during the handover.

How Will Amar Subramanya’s Background Influence Apple’s AI Direction?

Amar Subramanya brings extensive expertise from his 16 years at Google, where he contributed to advanced AI research, and his recent role as corporate vice president of AI at Microsoft. At Apple, he will report to Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi and oversee core foundation models, machine-learning research, and AI safety protocols. Experts note that Subramanya’s experience with teams like Google’s DeepMind could accelerate Apple’s on-device AI capabilities, setting it apart from cloud-heavy rivals. According to industry analysts, this move addresses criticisms that Apple has invested less in AI infrastructure compared to Microsoft and Google, which have poured billions into chips and large-scale models. Subramanya’s leadership is expected to prioritize personalized features, such as an enhanced Siri rollout planned for next year, helping Apple regain momentum in a field transformed by innovations like ChatGPT since 2022.

The announcement highlights Apple’s unique approach to AI, focusing on privacy-preserving, on-device processing rather than relying on expansive cloud servers. CEO Tim Cook emphasized Federighi’s instrumental role in these efforts, stating that the integration of advanced AI will bring more intuitive experiences to users. Other teams previously under Giannandrea, including those handling robotics and certain AI oversight, have been reassigned to Chief Operating Officer Sabih Khan and Services Chief Eddy Cue, streamlining operations across the organization.

Apple’s AI journey has faced scrutiny this year, with the debut of Apple Intelligence receiving mixed reviews from users and critics. A key component, the revamped Siri, was postponed to 2026, underscoring development hurdles. In March 2025, Siri responsibilities were shifted away from Giannandrea’s direct control, and the company’s secretive robotics division followed suit shortly after. These adjustments come as Apple seeks to close the gap with leaders in generative AI, having partnered with OpenAI to embed ChatGPT functionalities into products like iOS devices.

Financially, Apple shares have climbed 16% year-to-date in 2025, outperforming some sectors but trailing big tech peers aggressively expanding in AI. The company announced a substantial uptick in AI spending in August, with Cook describing the technology as “profound” for its potential to transform user interactions. Unlike competitors building massive data centers, Apple’s strategy emphasizes efficient, device-based AI to maintain user privacy and reduce dependency on external computing power.

Giannandrea’s tenure since joining Apple in 2018 from Google was marked by foundational work in machine learning, but recent delays have prompted this leadership refresh. Cook expressed gratitude for Giannandrea’s contributions in a statement, noting his role in advancing Apple’s AI foundation. As Subramanya steps in, the focus shifts to injecting fresh perspectives into ongoing projects, potentially revitalizing Apple’s position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is John Giannandrea leaving his role at Apple?

John Giannandrea is stepping down from his position as Apple’s AI head after leading the division since 2018, amid delays in key projects like Siri and Apple Intelligence. He will advise the company until retiring next spring, allowing a smooth transition to new leadership focused on accelerating AI innovation.

What changes will Amar Subramanya bring to Apple’s AI strategy?

Amar Subramanya will lead Apple’s foundation models, machine learning research, and AI safety as Vice President of AI, reporting to Craig Federighi. Drawing from his DeepMind and Microsoft experience, he aims to enhance on-device AI features, including a more personalized Siri, to differentiate Apple in the competitive generative AI space.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership Transition: John Giannandrea’s departure signals Apple’s recalibration of AI efforts, with Subramanya’s appointment bringing proven expertise from Google and Microsoft.
• Project Delays: Setbacks in Siri relaunch and Apple Intelligence reception underscore the challenges Apple faces against AI frontrunners like OpenAI.
• Strategic Focus: Emphasize on-device AI and partnerships, such as with OpenAI, to boost privacy and user experience—explore Apple’s ecosystem for integrated tech solutions.

Conclusion

The Apple AI leadership change marks a pivotal moment as the company navigates delays in Siri enhancements and broader AI strategy recalibration under Amar Subramanya’s guidance. With Giannandrea’s advisory role ensuring stability and fresh talent addressing competitive pressures, Apple is poised to innovate in on-device intelligence. Investors and users alike should watch for upcoming advancements that could redefine personal technology interactions in the coming years.