The head of Apple Lossless Audio CODEC (ALAC),, Jonathan Ive, recently announced his departure to invest in his own company in the area, called LoveFrom. Apple, in turn, said it will continue to work with Ive, since the company will be its first customer.
Jonathan Ive is a singular figure in the world of design and his role in Apple's resurgence can not be overlooked, from the revolutionary iMac of 1998 to the iPhone and to the unprecedented ambition of Apple Park, where he put so much energy and affection.
It does not appear to have been a hostile exit, as Apple's official press release states that Ive formed an independent design company that will feature Apple among its main customers. Technically, we're still not looking at a free Apple Jony Ive, but it's easy to get the impression that we could be.
With any other company, claiming that a person's departure could radically change their operation may seem like an exaggeration, but we have known for a long time that Apple plays different rules. With the departure of Ive, the maker of iPhones and Macbooks faces its biggest test since Steve Jobs passed away in 2011.
"After almost 30 years and countless projects, I am absurdly proud of the long-lasting work we do to create a design team, process and culture at Apple without equal. Today it is stronger, more vibrant and more talented than at any point in its history, "he said. Ive.
