Key Apple Designer Abidur Chowdhury Joins AI Startup
Abidur Chowdhury, a key industrial designer behind the ultra-thin iPhone Air, has left Apple to join an undisclosed AI startup. His departure is part of a series of high-profile exits from Apple’s design division amid a reorganization.
Rising Star Behind iPhone Air
Chowdhury gained significant prominence within Apple after being selected to present the iPhone Air’s design in a video during a September launch event. This role is typically reserved for key figures and rising talents within the company’s closely guarded design studio.
The iPhone Air holds the distinction of being Apple’s slimmest phone ever released, featuring cutting-edge engineering, minimalism, an advanced camera system, enhanced battery life, and a high-performance chip.
Who Is Abidur Chowdhury?
Born and raised in London, Chowdhury is a San Francisco-based designer who joined Apple in Cupertino in January 2019. He contributed to some of Apple’s most innovative products during his six-year tenure.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s degree in product design and technology from Loughborough University
- First place in Seymour Powell Design Week competition
- New Designers Kenwood Appliances Award recipient
- James Dyson Foundation Bursary and 3D Hubs Student Grant winner
- 2016 Red Dot Design Award for “Plug and Play” concept
Professional Experience:
- Early internships at UK-based Curventa and Cambridge Consultants
- Industrial designer at Layer design
- Ran his own consultancy from 2018-2019 before joining Apple
His LinkedIn profile still lists him as an Apple employee.
