Apple’s design department is experiencing a major transition as Alan Dye prepares to depart for Meta after nearly 20 years with the company. Dye, who has served as chief of user interface design since 2015, will join Meta on December 31st to lead a newly formed creative studio. Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed the move and announced that Stephen Lemay would take over Dye’s responsibilities.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared details of Dye’s new role through a post on Threads. The new creative studio will operate within Reality Labs and will focus on integrating design, fashion, and technology. This represents a strategic investment by Meta in strengthening its design capabilities as the company pushes into new product categories and experiences.
Dye’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Meta as it develops AI-powered glasses and other innovative devices. Zuckerberg emphasized that these technologies will fundamentally change how people interact with the digital world. The new studio will be tasked with ensuring that Meta’s products are not only technologically advanced but also beautifully designed and intuitive to use.
The Meta CEO stressed that the initiative will bring together talented individuals with exceptional skills in craft, creative vision, and systems thinking. Dye will report directly to Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, underscoring the importance of this role. This high-profile hire demonstrates Meta’s commitment to competing on design excellence and creating products that bridge hardware and software in meaningful ways.