Apple Executive Robby Walker to Depart After Siri Leadership Change

Former Apple executive Robby Walker is set to leave the company next month following a significant shift in leadership regarding the development of its virtual assistant, Siri. According to a report by Bloomberg, Walker was relieved of his responsibilities as chief of Siri updates earlier this year, with oversight transferring to Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, in March 2024.

The transition in leadership came after Walker reportedly expressed concerns about delays in releasing new AI features for Siri, describing the situation as both “ugly” and “embarrassing.” These delays have raised questions about Apple’s ability to enhance Siri’s functionality to compete effectively with virtual assistants from rivals such as Amazon and Google.

Updating Siri with AI-enabled features is a key priority for Apple, but the company has faced setbacks. In March, Apple announced that features teased for a June 2024 release, which would enable Siri to access users’ personal information and exert greater control over apps, had been postponed. The company indicated that these updates would now be available sometime “in the coming year.”

Leadership Changes and Future Strategies

In response to the challenges, Apple has overhauled the management team responsible for Siri’s redesign, integrating members from its Vision Pro software group in April. Despite the reduction in his official duties, Walker remains influential in shaping Apple’s AI strategy. His LinkedIn profile identifies him as a senior director overseeing answers, knowledge, and information.

Bloomberg highlighted that Walker is currently involved in developing a new AI-enabled web search system aimed at competing with established players like OpenAI and Perplexity. This initiative reflects Apple’s ongoing commitment to advancing its artificial intelligence capabilities, even as it navigates the complexities of Siri’s evolution.

As Walker prepares for his departure, the future direction of Siri and Apple’s broader AI initiatives will be closely watched by industry observers and consumers alike. The company has emphasized the importance of these updates in maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

With Walker’s exit, Apple will need to ensure that its ambitious plans for Siri are executed effectively, addressing the concerns raised during his tenure and meeting the expectations of its users.