But what does it mean for the company? Ive is still in charge of the company’s industrial design and user interface divisions, but he won’t have to worry so much about administrative and management work, which is unarguably best for both him and the company. Over the years, we’ve learned that Ive isn’t much of a public speaker. Even at new product launches, Ive hardly ever attends events to discuss the new iPhone, iPad or iOS, as learned from Ive’s profile by Ian Parker for the New Yorker earlier this year. Instead, Ive makes a video footage explaining the new design language, an agreement both Ive and Cook have cherished for years. On a memo sent by Apple CEO Tim Cook to employees, Cook noted that hardware designer Richard Howarth will head industrial design division at the company. He was part of the team which designed the first iPhone. UI designer Alan Dye will spearhead the user interface division. Dye has contributed to both iOS 7’s redesign and interface for Apple Watch. Both Howarth and Dye are longtime Apple employees, and in their new role, they will be reporting to Ive. Ive will be handing the managerial responsibilities to two on July 1.
“Jony is one of the most talented and accomplished designers of his generation, with an astonishing 5000 design and utility patents to his name,” Cook notes on the memo. “As Chief Design Officer, Jony will remain responsible for all of our design, focusing entirely on current design projects, new ideas and future initiatives.” Ive plans to utilize the freed up time designing Apple’s retail stores and a new campus. The new campus will be completely designed by Ive, from building to items like desks and chairs.
