Abidur Chowdhury, one of Apple’s industrial designers, has reportedly left the company. Chowdhury played a “key role” in the development of the iPhone Air and served as a spokesperson for Apple when the product was introduced. According to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter, Chowdhury’s new position is an artificial intelligence startup.

Key iPhone Air Designer Leaves Apple

News of his departure comes amid questions surrounding the iPhone Air’s commercial performance. The Information recently reported that the iPhone Air was a “flop” and that Apple had delayed the next model. Bloomberg writer Mark Gurman, a reliable Apple insider, partially confirmed this information, stating that a second Air model is expected, but not before 2027.

Gurman, who first announced Chowdhury’s departure, claimed his resignation was unrelated to the phone’s sales performance. Gurman, in a social media post, stated, “His departure is unrelated to the phone’s launch. Despite lackluster sales, the iPhone Air was praised for its design.” This statement was intended to ward off potential speculation that Chowdhury was dismissed from the company due to its lack of success.

The iPhone Air was initially acclaimed by critics upon its release. However, some tech publications noted that the device was “too light for its own good” and offered “less than ideal” battery life. There was even talk that this model, like the iPhone Mini and Plus series, might be discontinued. Some commentators suggested that the Air may have served as a “testing ground” for Apple to downsize components for future smart glasses or a foldable iPhone.

Abidur Chowdhury joined Apple in 2019, coinciding with the departure of the company’s legendary chief design officer, Jony Ive. According to reports at the time, Apple was attempting to rebuild its design department, which had been shaken by Ive’s departure. Allegedly, Jony Ive lost faith in the company, particularly due to disagreements over the Apple Watch’s strategy, leading to the department’s decline over time.

According to Mark Gurman, Chowdhury’s resignation caused “ripples within the company,” given his “rising profile” within the design team. Apple’s loss of a key designer it had cultivated in the post-Jony Ive era is being closely watched as the company’s future vision unfolds. So, have you had a chance to try the iPhone Air? What are your thoughts on the device’s design?