Apple has made a bold move in AI leadership. The tech giant has appointed Amar Subramanya as vice-president of Artificial Intelligence. Subramanya, a veteran with over 20 years of experience in AI and machine learning, replaces John Giannandrea, who led Apple’s Machine Learning and AI Strategy for seven years. Giannandrea will retire in spring 2026 and serve as an advisor until then.
This change has sparked excitement across the tech industry. Experts are wondering whether Subramanya can help Apple catch up with rivals in AI and take Siri to the next level.
Who Is Amar Subramanya?
Amar Subramanya is a seasoned AI researcher and technology executive. He earned his Bachelor’s in Engineering from Bangalore University in 2001 and completed his PhD from the University of Washington in 2009.
Subramanya began his career at IBM as a software engineer in 2001. He then moved to Microsoft and later joined Google in 2009. At Google, he worked for over eight years, rising from Staff Research Scientist to Vice President of Engineering for the Gemini digital assistant project. In July 2025, he returned to Microsoft as Corporate Vice President of AI before making the move to Apple.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said, “AI has long been central to Apple’s strategy, and we are pleased to welcome Amar to Craig’s leadership team and to bring his extraordinary AI expertise to Apple.”
A company statement added that Subramanya will lead critical areas, including Apple Foundation Models, machine learning research and AI Safety and Evaluation.
What This Appointment Means For Apple
Apple has traditionally been cautious with AI. Its voice assistant Siri has lagged behind competitors like Google Assistant and Microsoft’s AI tools. Subramanya’s arrival could indicate a shift towards smarter, more personalised AI integration across Apple devices.
Under his guidance, Apple may develop a Siri that understands context, adapts to user habits and provides proactive insights. With experience on Gemini and large-scale AI systems, Subramanya could help Apple compete in an era dominated by generative AI and personalised digital assistants.
Privacy will remain a key focus. Apple’s challenge will be to combine intelligent AI features with its strong commitment to user data protection. If successful, the company could deliver smarter devices without compromising security.
What’s At Stake
Enhanced user experience: Smarter assistants could make daily tasks easier, from scheduling and messaging to creative projects.
Privacy-first AI: Apple must ensure personalised intelligence without violating privacy.
Ecosystem advantage: AI that works seamlessly across iPhone, Mac, iPad, and other devices could attract more users.
Industry leadership: Apple could set new standards for AI in consumer tech.
Amar Subramanya brings deep expertise and a proven track record. The question now is execution. Can Apple turn Siri and its AI ecosystem into a genuinely intelligent, privacy-conscious experience?
If Subramanya succeeds, many may soon move from saying “Hey Gemini” to “Hey Siri – now really smart.
