Apple Staff Reportedly ‘Giddy’ Over Alan Dye’s Departure
▼ Summary
– Alan Dye, Apple’s vice president of Human Interface Design, is leaving to lead a new design studio at Meta, with Steve Lemay replacing him.
– Internal sources at Apple praise Steve Lemay for his attention to detail, craftsmanship, and describe him as a career interface/interaction designer.
– Apple employees are reportedly very happy that Lemay is replacing Dye, with sentiment that the news is almost too good to be true.
– Design deputy Billy Sorrentino and other members of Dye’s inner circle are also leaving Apple to join Meta’s new studio.
– Mark Zuckerberg stated Meta’s new design studio will aim to blend design, fashion, and technology for future products.
A significant leadership change is underway at Apple, with the departure of Alan Dye, the company’s vice president of Human Interface Design. Dye, who has held the influential role since 2015, is leaving to lead a new design studio at Meta. Apple confirmed the move, noting that longtime design veteran Steve Lemay will step into the position. Internal reactions to this executive shuffle, as reported by industry sources, reveal a palpable sense of optimism among Apple’s design teams.
According to reports, the sentiment within Apple is one of enthusiasm for the leadership transition. Sources describe staff as “happy, if not downright giddy” that Steve Lemay is taking over from Alan Dye. Lemay, a 26-year Apple veteran known for keeping a low public profile, is reportedly held in high esteem by his colleagues. He is characterized as a career interface and interaction designer whose strengths lie in a meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, qualities some felt were lacking during Dye’s tenure.
While no designer’s work is without its critics, and some have pointed to specific projects under Lemay’s purview, the overall internal response is overwhelmingly positive. One source in a position to know stated, “I don’t think there was a better choice than Lemay,” highlighting the deep respect for his talent and personal demeanor. The departure was seen by some as unexpectedly favorable news, with the impression that many had given up hope for a change in leadership.
The exit extends beyond Dye alone. Design deputy Billy Sorrentino is also departing Apple to join Meta’s new studio, and reports suggest other members of Dye’s inner circle may follow. Mark Zuckerberg commented on the hires, stating the new Meta design studio will aim to blend design, fashion, and technology to shape future products. For Apple, this moment represents a pivotal shift, placing its human interface design future in the hands of a respected internal veteran, a move that has clearly energized the company’s creative ranks.
(Source: 9to5Mac)
