Meta is Overhauling Its Software Interface with Top Apple Designers. In a bold move to revamp its software user experience, Meta has poached the top design talent from rival tech giant Apple. The company's efforts come as it continues to aggressively pursue artificial intelligence (AI) advancements and expand into new markets.
According to reports, two prominent designers have joined Meta: Alan Dye, former head of Human Interface Design at Apple, and Billy Sorrentino, a senior director on the Apple design team who was also previously creative director at WIRED. The pair will lead a new design studio within Meta's Reality Labs, tasked with creating more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly software interfaces.
Meta's decision to bring in top-notch designers from Apple is seen as an effort to improve its often criticized user interface across various platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and its VR headsets. Analysts say the company has struggled to create a cohesive design language that appeals to users.
The hires signal that Meta plans to introduce new features into its wearables line, potentially pushing them in a more Apple-like direction. The move comes as Meta continues to invest heavily in AI research, including pouring money into its Superintelligence lab and developing smart glasses like the Ray-Ban Meta lenses, which have been successful in part due to their sleek designs.
Meta's new focus on design is seen as an attempt to address criticism of its software interfaces being stodgy and unappealing. The company has faced a reputation for inconsistency across its platforms, with some users leaving due to frustration with the user experience. By revamping its UI, Meta aims to keep users engaged and improve overall satisfaction.
However, the move also raises questions about how Apple will fill the vacant positions left by Dye and Sorrentino, who were both key players in shaping interactions on various Apple devices. The company has reportedly replaced Dye with Stephen Lemay, an Apple UI designer.
According to reports, two prominent designers have joined Meta: Alan Dye, former head of Human Interface Design at Apple, and Billy Sorrentino, a senior director on the Apple design team who was also previously creative director at WIRED. The pair will lead a new design studio within Meta's Reality Labs, tasked with creating more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly software interfaces.
Meta's decision to bring in top-notch designers from Apple is seen as an effort to improve its often criticized user interface across various platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and its VR headsets. Analysts say the company has struggled to create a cohesive design language that appeals to users.
The hires signal that Meta plans to introduce new features into its wearables line, potentially pushing them in a more Apple-like direction. The move comes as Meta continues to invest heavily in AI research, including pouring money into its Superintelligence lab and developing smart glasses like the Ray-Ban Meta lenses, which have been successful in part due to their sleek designs.
Meta's new focus on design is seen as an attempt to address criticism of its software interfaces being stodgy and unappealing. The company has faced a reputation for inconsistency across its platforms, with some users leaving due to frustration with the user experience. By revamping its UI, Meta aims to keep users engaged and improve overall satisfaction.
However, the move also raises questions about how Apple will fill the vacant positions left by Dye and Sorrentino, who were both key players in shaping interactions on various Apple devices. The company has reportedly replaced Dye with Stephen Lemay, an Apple UI designer.