2 top Apple executives ousted in shake-up

Updated: October 29, 2012 - 8:05 PM

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Apple fired the executives in charge of the company's mobile software efforts and retail stores in a management shake-up.

The biggest of the changes involved the departure of Scott Forstall, who for several years ran software development for Apple's iPad and iPhone products. In many respects, Forstall seemed to most closely embody the technology vision of Steve Jobs, Apple's former chief executive who died a year ago.

But Forstall was also known as ambitious and divisive, qualities that generated more friction within Apple after the death of Jobs. Forstall's responsibilities will be divided among a few other Apple executives.

A recent incident appeared to play a major role in his dismissal. After an outcry among iPhone customers about bugs in the company's new mobile maps service, Forstall refused to sign a public apology over the matter, dismissing the problems as exaggerated, according to people with knowledge of the situation who declined to be named discussing confidential matters.

John Browett, who took over as head of the company's retail operations in April, will also leave the company after a number of missteps.

Apple said in a news release Monday that the management changes would "encourage even more collaboration" at the company. But people briefed on Apple's moves said Forstall and Browett were fired.

NEW YORK TIMES