Apple AI Executive Departs Amid Siri Setbacks and Talent Exodus

Robby Walker, a key Apple AI executive, is leaving the company following years of delays in Siri improvements and a broader reshuffling of the tech giant's artificial intelligence leadership. His departure casts doubt on the timeline for Apple's upcoming AI-powered search tool, slated for 2026.

The exit follows multiple high-profile departures from Apple's AI division, including Ruoming Pang and Frank Chu, who both joined Meta. Walker had recently transitioned from leading Siri development to overseeing Apple's Answers team before his impending exit.

Internal challenges with Apple Intelligence rollouts prompted a reorganization earlier this year, with Siri oversight shifting to software engineering head Craig Federighi. Walker remained a vocal advocate for Siri's potential, comparing Apple's AI progress to an arduous ocean crossing during a March internal meeting.