Apple named former Microsoft and Google executive Amar Subramanya as its VP of AI, replacing John Giannandrea who played a key role in the company’s AI and machine learning strategy for more than seven years.

Apple stated Subramanya will report into software boss Craig Federighi, leading critical areas around its AI business including Apple Foundation Models, ML research and AI Safety and Evaluation.

He is described by Apple as a “renowned AI researcher”, having most recently served as corporate VP of AI at Microsoft and previously spent 16 years at Google where he headed up engineering for Google’s Gemini Assistant.

Subramanya comes into the role at Apple at a time when the iPhone maker has faced pressure over its AI deployment, with the company slower to roll out features in comparison to rivals.

Apple said the new hire brings deep expertise in AI and ML research and in integrating that research into products and features, which will be important in its ongoing work around the technology and future Apple Intelligence features.

Giannandrea will stay on at Apple as an advisor before retiring in 2026. He has been at the company since 2018.

CEO Tim Cook thanked Giannandrea for his role in advancing Apple’s AI’s work, while adding the technology was central to its strategy and he was looking forward to utilising Subramanya’s expertise in the field.

As it attempts to boost its AI offering, Apple overhauled its management team in charge of Siri earlier this year. Cook also announced in August plans to significantly ramp up investment in AI.