Jony Ive and Apple

February 3, 2023


As a graphic designer, I’ve long admired former Apple Chief Design Officer, Jony Ive. Everything he and his team produced prior to his departure in 2019 defined Apple’s brand. The colorful iMac, iPod, iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and even Apple Stores — were sleek, minimal, and beautiful. Ive is a brilliant designer.


Unfortunately, his luster has started to fade. This week, Britain’s Comic Relief announced that Ive has redesigned their iconic Red Nose. Despite the great fanfare, it looks like a silly novelty or bric-a-brac you could get at any party supply store. And two days ago, Apple announced that the position of Chief Design Officer would be eliminated at Apple. Going forward, their design team will report directly to the COO.


Not tragic, but kind of a sad day for design.


UPDATE 2.14:

Maybe Jony needed the structure of Apple, Inc., or inspiration from Steve Jobs. His latest, the coronation emblem for King Charles, looks like a nice collage of clip art.

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