Siri, Meet Sabih: Apple’s New Core Runs on Desi Intelligence

Image Source: Indiatimes

In a rare leadership transition, Apple has appointed Indian-origin executive Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) in place of Jeff Williams. This comes as Apple speeds up the decoupling from China, with India as a strategic and manufacturing hub of significance.

Key Features of the Appointment

Sabih Khan, a native of Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, will formally join as COO later this month
He has been with Apple since 1995 and is now Senior Vice President of Operations
Khan is given credit for establishing Apple's worldwide supply chain and leading efforts towards sustainability

Strategic Timing and World Implications

Apple is moving significant portions of its production to India and Vietnam to minimize tariff risks and geopolitical tensions
In FY 2024-25, Apple manufactured iPhones worth $22 billion in India out of which $17.4 billion were exported
CEO Tim Cook promised that most of the iPhones launched in the US this quarter will be manufactured in India

Khan's Vision and Expanded Role

As COO, Khan will manage manufacturing, logistics, AppleCare, and supplier responsibility initiatives
He has minimized Apple's carbon footprint by 60% or more by means of green manufacturing practices
His leadership will also be well-positioned to propel Apple's emphasis on moral working conditions and environmental stewardship

Symbolic and Strategic Importance

Hiring Khan reflects Apple's increasing link with India, both as a market and as a production base
His swearing in also indicates the increasing presence of Indian-origin leaders in the global technology industry

Sources: Firstpost, Business Standard, India Today, MSN India, SiliconIndia, Indian Express24