Overview
- Abidur Chowdhury, the industrial designer who presented the iPhone Air at September’s launch, has departed Apple for an undisclosed AI startup, multiple outlets report.
- His exit “made waves” internally due to his rising profile on the team, according to Bloomberg, which cites people familiar with the move.
- Reports say the departure is not related to the iPhone Air’s disappointing sales, which have prompted significant production cuts despite praise for the device’s design.
- Chowdhury joined Apple in 2019, played a key role in developing the ultrathin phone, and narrated its two‑minute design video during the launch event.
- Bloomberg reports Apple still plans a second‑generation iPhone Air for 2027 as the company restructures following Jeff Williams’ retirement and shifts design reporting to Tim Cook.