Apple loses another key exec to Meta’s hiring spree, this time head of AI search project

HIGHLIGHTS

Apple has reportedly lost another key executive to Meta.

Ke Yang, the newly appointed head of Apple's AI web search project, is set to join Meta.

Yang had recently taken charge of Apple's Answers, Knowledge and Information (AKI) team, which is central to the upcoming Siri overhaul.

Apple loses another key exec to Meta’s hiring spree, this time head of AI search project

Apple has reportedly lost another key executive to Meta, as Ke Yang, the newly appointed head of Apple’s AI web search project, is set to join Meta. Yang had recently taken charge of the Answers, Knowledge and Information (AKI) team, which is central to Apple’s upcoming Siri overhaul scheduled for March 2026, according to Bloomberg. This initiative aims to enhance Siri with ChatGPT-like capabilities, including the ability to pull information from the web. Yang’s departure follows a series of high-profile exits from Apple’s AI division.

Digit.in Survey
✅ Thank you for completing the survey!

Yang’s move to Meta underscores the intensifying competition for AI talent in Silicon Valley. Meta has been actively recruiting top AI professionals, including several from Apple, as part of its strategy to bolster its AI capabilities.

Also read: Apple iPhone 16e price drops by over Rs 9,900: Check deal details here

In response to Yang’s departure, Apple’s AKI team will now report to Benoit Dupin, a deputy to John Giannandrea, Apple’s senior vice president of AI and machine learning. This restructuring reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to stabilise its AI division amid the recent wave of departures. 

Several remaining members of the Apple team anticipate that many more employees will depart in the coming months. Despite these challenges, Apple remains committed to enhancing Siri’s capabilities and competing in the rapidly evolving AI-powered search market.

Also read: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold price drops by Rs 83,000 during Flipkart Big Bang Diwali sale

Yang’s exit is part of a broader trend of talent migration within the tech industry, highlighting the competitive landscape in AI development. As companies like Meta continue to invest heavily in AI, the pressure on firms like Apple to retain and attract top talent intensifies. 

Also read: OnePlus 13R available for under Rs 37,000 during Amazon Great India Festival sale

Ayushi Jain

Ayushi Jain

Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile

Digit.in
Logo
Digit.in
Logo