Apple’s Chief iPhone Designer To Jump Over To Jony Ive’s Firm LoveFrom

Image via Apple

Tang Tan, a key visionary behind the Apple iPhone and Watch aesthetics, is reportedly making a high-profile switch to LoveFrom, the creative collective co-founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive. 

Known for his pivotal role as Apple’s Vice President of Product Design, Tan has had a significant influence on the design language of iconic products like the AirPods, iPhone, and Apple Watch, and is expected to bring his extensive experience and unique design philosophy to LoveFrom, according to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Tan’s expertise has been crucial in crafting the sleek, user-centric designs that have become synonymous with Apple’s brand.

LoveFrom is an independent design firm founded by Ive and his long-time collaborator, Marc Newson, in 2019, marking Ive’s exit as Chief Design Officer at Apple, where he had worked for nearly 30 years and was responsible for the design of iconic products like the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. The outfit called Apple one of its early clients, and it has since partnered with names such as Airbnb, Ferrari, and even King Charles III.

At LoveFrom, Tan’s role is rumored to involve leading hardware engineering for an ambitious AI hardware project. The specifics of this venture remain tightly under wraps, but it is said to involve a collaboration with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, hinting at a synergy between innovative design and cutting-edge AI software. 

Tan’s departure signifies a notable shift in Apple's design leadership and is reflective of the broader trend of talent migration following Ive's exit in 2019.

As the tech community watches closely, Tan’s move to LoveFrom is more than a change of jobs—it’s a signal of the new directions emerging for both firms. 

[via Bloomberg, Reuters, The Tech Portal, cover image via Apple]