Apple Inc. is experiencing a significant challenge in its artificial intelligence (AI) division as Ruoming Pang, a top executive responsible for the company’s foundation models team, departs to join Meta Platforms Inc. This move marks another setback for Apple’s AI efforts, which have been under scrutiny recently. Pang, who joined Apple from Alphabet Inc. in 2021, played a crucial role in developing large language models that support various AI features on Apple devices. Meta’s aggressive recruitment strategy has attracted several high-profile AI experts, including Pang. According to sources familiar with the matter, Meta offered Pang a lucrative compensation package worth tens of millions of dollars annually. This hiring spree is part of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s broader strategy to prioritize AI development and maintain competitiveness with industry leaders like OpenAI and Google. Zuckerberg has personally engaged in recruiting efforts, hosting potential hires at his residences and offering substantial financial incentives. In addition to Pang, Meta has recently hired other notable AI researchers, such as Yuanzhi Li from OpenAI and Anton Bakhtin from Anthropic PBC. These strategic hires underscore Meta’s commitment to advancing its AI capabilities and establishing itself as a leader in the field of superintelligence. At Apple, Pang led a team of approximately 100 engineers focused on developing large language models for Apple Intelligence and other AI applications. However, internal discussions about potentially integrating third-party models from companies like OpenAI or Anthropic have created uncertainty within the team. This uncertainty has affected morale and led to further departures, including Tom Gunter, a key deputy to Pang. The foundation models team now reports to Daphne Luong, with Zhifeng Chen taking over leadership following Pang’s departure. The restructuring involves multiple managers reporting to Chen, who will oversee the engineers. Apple’s overall AI strategy is now primarily managed by Craig Federighi and Mike Rockwell. Apple’s recent Worldwide Developers Conference showcased limited new AI features, with some developments relying on external partners like OpenAI and Google. As competition for top AI talent intensifies, Apple’s ability to retain key personnel will be crucial for its future success in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.