Apple’s AI and Search Chief Robby Walker Jumps Ship—Another Major Departure Rocks Tech Giant

Apple's artificial intelligence ambitions hit another roadblock as Robby Walker, the executive leading their AI and search initiatives, abruptly exits.

Walker's departure marks the latest in a string of high-profile exits from Apple's technology divisions—raising questions about the company's ability to compete in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The move comes as Apple struggles to keep pace with rivals in generative AI and search technology, despite pouring billions into development. Industry watchers note this pattern of talent drain often precedes strategic shifts or internal restructuring.

Wall Street barely blinked—because when you're sitting on $200 billion in cash, who needs innovation anyway? Just buy the next big thing when it emerges.

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Walker had joined Apple in 2013, when the tech giant acquired his startup, Cue. He led the company’s Answers, Information, and Knowledge team. He was involved in developing Apple’s new AI-powered web search system, designed to compete with platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity. That product is expected to launch next year.

Walker’s exit follows a series of setbacks for Apple’s AI efforts. Earlier this year, oversight of Siri was shifted from Walker to software chief Craig Federighi after delays in rolling out key features.

Talent Drain in AAPL’s AI Division

Walker’s departure adds to a growing list of AI talent leaving Apple. Ruoming Pang, who led the AI models team, and the robotics research head, Jian Zhang, recently joined Meta Platforms (META), along with several engineers and researchers. Frank Chu, another senior executive focused on search infrastructure, also left for Meta’s Superintelligence Labs.

These high-profile exits reflect a broader trend of top AI talent leaving Apple, which could pose a challenge to the company as it increases its focus on developing next-generation AI technologies.

Is Apple a Buy, Sell, or Hold?

Turning to Wall Street, Apple stock has a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on 14 Buys, 15 Holds, and two Sells assigned in the last three months. At $240.63, the average AAPL stock price target implies a 2.8% upside potential.