Apple Restructures AI Team to Focus on Foundation Models for 2026 Relaunch
Apple is restructuring its internal AI teams to focus specifically on Apple Foundation Models, separating robotics and Siri into different divisions. This strategic shift points toward an on-device AI focus for the upcoming 2026 relaunch rather than a crisis.
Apple slowly restructures its AI division throughout 2025 to reflect a focused internal strategy rather than a response to individual failures. Despite the departure of AI chief John Giannandrea and various team members, the company maintains its core approach to artificial intelligence development.
The recent reorganization shifts responsibilities away from Giannandrea's former scope by moving robotics under the hardware chief and placing Siri under the Vision Pro team. This leaves the central AI group to focus entirely on developing Apple Foundation Models, indicating that the restructuring plan predates Giannandrea's retirement.
Evidence from ongoing leaks suggests Apple still plans to deliver its previously promised on-device AI systems for the 2026 relaunch. The updated Apple Intelligence relies heavily on these foundation models, while third-party models within Private Cloud Compute provide additional support to the overall ecosystem.