Gene Munster Says Apple’s AI Chief Was Probably Requested To ‘Retire’ By Tim Cook, As CEO Is ‘Very Intense’ About His Final Years – Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL)
Apple’s push into artificial intelligence appears to be accelerating as longtime AI leader John Giannandrea prepares to step down, a move that Deepwater Asset Management’s Gene Munster believes signals CEO Tim Cook’s urgency to deliver bigger AI results in the coming years.
Apple’s AI Shakeup And The Siri Timeline
Apple announced a leadership transition within its artificial intelligence and machine learning group: John Giannandrea, who has led the effort since 2018, will shift into an advisory role and retire in spring 2026. While Apple did not specify timing for a revamped Siri in its announcement, Munster noted that Giannandrea’s spring departure aligns with the widely discussed timeframe for a major Siri update.
Cook’s Drive For Results In His Final Years
In a video commentary, Munster said he believes Giannandrea was likely asked to retire, interpreting the move as a sign of Cook’s intensity about his remaining years at Apple and his determination to push AI forward. At 60, Giannandrea could continue contributing, Munster said, but Apple’s priority appears to be accelerating outcomes to better compete with rivals such as Alphabet’s Google and Microsoft.
Separately, Apple has been increasing its leadership planning efforts. The company’s board and top executives have reportedly discussed succession scenarios for Cook, who could step down as early as next year, though no final decision has been made.
Amar Subramanya Steps In To Lead The Next Phase
Apple has hired Amar Subramanya as vice president of AI. Subramanya previously served as corporate vice president of AI at Microsoft and spent 16 years at Google, where he contributed to the Gemini Assistant. Munster believes Subramanya’s background equips him to elevate Apple’s AI capabilities and speed the company’s transition into more ambitious AI experiences across the ecosystem, including Siri and on-device intelligence.
Financial Context And Market Reaction
In October, Apple reported fiscal fourth-quarter revenue of $102.47 billion, topping analyst estimates, with earnings of $1.85 per share. It marked the company’s 11th straight quarter of beats. Revenue rose 8% year over year, bolstered by double-digit earnings gains across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
On Monday, Apple shares closed at $283.10, up 1.52%. In after-hours trading, the stock was slightly lower at $283.09.
What It Means For Apple’s AI Strategy
Taken together, the leadership transition, the appointment of Subramanya, and the timing around a possible Siri overhaul suggest Apple is entering a more aggressive execution phase for AI. Munster’s read is that Cook aims to solidify Apple’s position against Google and Microsoft by pushing for faster, more visible progress in consumer-facing AI. If Apple can deliver a significantly upgraded Siri and deeper AI integration across its devices and services, it could reshape the company’s competitive footing in the next product cycle.
