Apple AI and Search Executive Robby Walker to Leave iPhone Maker

Core Insights - Robby Walker, a senior AI executive at Apple, is leaving the company, marking a significant change in its AI leadership [1][2] - Walker was previously in charge of Siri and later transitioned to leading a new AI-powered web search system set to launch next year [2] - His departure is part of a broader trend of executive turnover within Apple's AI division, which has seen other key figures leave for competitors like Meta [3] Group 1: Leadership Changes - Robby Walker was one of the few direct reports to AI chief John Giannandrea and had a significant role in Apple's AI strategy [1][3] - After overseeing Siri, Walker's responsibilities shifted to a new AI web search initiative, indicating a strategic pivot within the company [2] Group 2: Impact on AI Strategy - Walker's exit follows a series of departures from Apple's AI division, including Ruoming Pang and Frank Chu, which could impact the company's competitive edge in AI [3] - Despite a reduction in his duties, Walker remained influential in shaping Apple's AI direction until his planned departure next month [2][3] Group 3: Internal Challenges - In an internal meeting, Walker acknowledged the embarrassment surrounding delays in Siri's feature updates, illustrating the challenges faced by the team [4]