Steve Jobs' spiritual partner, Jonathan Ive, leaving Apple
What's the story
The chief designer of the iPhone, Sir Jonathan Ive, has decided to leave Apple after nearly 30 years at the company.
Ive has put down his papers and will depart from the Cupertino giant to pursue his own venture later this year.
However, Apple says the company will continue working with Ive as one of his clients.
Here's more.
Ive's contribution
Ive helped transform Apple into the company it is
Working as the Chief Design Officer at Apple since the mid-90s, Ive shaped the company into what it is.
He contributed largely to the design of popular Apple products, including the iPhone, iMac, iPod, MacBook Air, iPad, and Apple Watch; Steve Jobs once referred to Ive as his "spiritual partner".
After Ive confirmed his departure, Apple's shares plummeted a whopping $13 billion in value.
New venture
Now, Ive will set up LoveFrom
Ive plans to continue his pursuit for design through his independent venture - LoveFrom.
There are hardly any details about the company, but Apple has confirmed it will continue working with him on projects as one of LoveFrom's first clients.
"This just seems like a natural and gentle time to make this change," Ive said while announcing his departure in a Financial Times' interview.
Quote
Here's what Tim Cook said on Ive's departure
"Jony is a singular figure in the design world and his role in Apple's revival cannot be overstated," Tim Cook said, adding that "I'm happy that our relationship continues to evolve and I look forward to working with Jony long into the future."
Replacement
Who will lead Apple's design efforts
After Ive's departure, design team leaders Evans Hankey and Alan Dye will handle Apple's design efforts as the VP of Industrial Design and VP of Human Interface Design, respectively.
They will work with Apple's design teams and report to the company's Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams.
Ive said, "The team will certainly thrive under the excellent leadership of Evans, Alan, and Jeff."