Apple Appoints Amar Subramanya as New Vice President of AI

Apple has appointed Indian-origin AI researcher Amar Subramanya as its new Vice President of Artificial Intelligence. With extensive experience at Google and Microsoft, Amar will lead Apple’s AI initiatives, including foundation models, machine learning research, and AI security, as the company looks to strengthen its AI capabilities and accelerate Siri improvements.

Amar Subramanya Takes Charge at Apple AI

Apple has made a major change in its Artificial Intelligence (AI) team, appointing Amar Subramanya as the company’s new Vice President of AI. Amar, of Indian origin, has previously held senior positions at Google and Microsoft. This announcement comes as Apple revealed that its current AI head, John Giannandrea, will retire in 2026.

This appointment is being celebrated as a notable achievement for India, highlighting the growing influence of Indian-origin experts in global tech.

Who is Amar Subramanya?

According to The Economic Times, Amar Subramanya is an experienced AI expert.

• He worked at Google for 16 years, serving as the Engineering Head for Project Gemini.

• Later, he joined Microsoft as Corporate Vice President of AI.

• Apple has now recognized him as a ‘Renowned AI Researcher’.

At Apple, Amar will report to Craig Federighi and oversee major AI projects, including:

• Foundation models

• Machine learning research

• AI safety and security

John Giannandrea’s Retirement

Amar Subramanya will succeed John Giannandrea, who joined Apple from Google in 2018. Giannandrea was responsible for improving Siri and other AI features but will retire at the start of 2026. Until then, he will continue in an advisory role.

Challenges Apple Faced in AI

In recent years, Apple has struggled in the AI domain. Delays in launching an advanced Siri raised concerns, and reports suggested a decline in trust from CEO Tim Cook. As a result, work on Siri was reassigned to other teams.

Expectations from Amar Subramanya

Amar brings vast experience from Google, Microsoft, and DeepMind.

• Studied in Bangalore University

• Completed PhD at University of Washington, USA

• Worked in major AI research groups

Apple hopes Amar’s leadership will accelerate the development of new AI features, including Siri, and help the company catch up with competitors like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI. His team will play a crucial role in achieving these objectives.

Apple Lags Behind in AI Sector

Despite a 16% rise in Apple shares in 2025, the company is trailing behind competitors who are heavily investing in AI data centers, proprietary chips, and future AI models. Apple has emphasized that it is significantly increasing investment in AI.

• CEO Tim Cook has referred to AI as a deep technology focus.

• Apple has also partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its products.

Amar Subramanya’s appointment marks a major step in reinforcing Apple’s AI capabilities and driving innovation across its product ecosystem.