Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies and the mastermind behind the company’s groundbreaking in-house chips, is reportedly planning to leave Apple, according to Bloomberg. Srouji’s pioneering work on Apple Silicon and the company’s proprietary modems has been instrumental in differentiating the iPhone, iPad, and Mac lineup, setting Apple apart in a highly competitive market.
Apple Strives to Retain Its Hardware Leader
Srouji has informed CEO Tim Cook of his serious consideration to leave the company in the near future. His next career step is expected to be at another technology company.
Apple’s chief hardware engineer, John Ternus, widely regarded as CEO Tim Cook’s potential successor, is poised to take on greater responsibility. However, any leadership transition remains unlikely in the immediate future, as Cook is not prepared to step down. Reports indicate that Srouji may be reluctant to continue under new leadership, even if offered a more significant role.
Potential Successors and Growing Departure Concerns
If Srouji exits, Apple is expected to appoint either Zongjian Chen or Sribalan Santhanam to lead hardware technology efforts.
The company has recently experienced a wave of high-profile departures: AI chief John Giannandrea left earlier this month, followed closely by Alan Dye, head of Apple’s user interface design, who now works at Meta. Additionally, Senior Vice President and General Counsel Kate Adams and Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives Lisa Jackson have announced their departures.
Notably, Abidur Chowdhury, designer of the iPhone Air, recently defected to an AI startup, surprising many colleagues. Other recent exits include Jeff Williams last month, former hardware chief Dan Riccio last fall, and Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri, who recently transitioned to a smaller role hinting at retirement.
Community Sentiment and Uncertain Future
Many observers are anxious about the ongoing talent exodus, prompting debate about its impact on Apple's future innovations and stability. The upcoming launch of a foldable iPhone or significant AI breakthroughs could change the narrative surrounding the company.
