Apple quietly lost one of its most important iPhone and iPod executives late last year, according to a new report. Citing anonymous sources, 9to5Mac reports that David Tupman, Apple’s Vice President of iPhone and iPod engineering for over a decade, left the company late last year. Tupman was hired by the company shortly before the introduction of the original iPod, and was soon promoted to vice president of iPod engineering, a position that saw him help in the development of every iPod released to date. Tupman was also tapped to help build the iPhone, and, as a result, his title was expanded. In addition, Tupman is listed on around 70 Apple technology patents, including filings related to power and battery life management, noise-canceling ear buds, iPhone power adapters, and interaction with accessories. According to the report, a successor has yet to be named, but Apple is said to be actively pursuing a replacement from inside the company.
Charles Starrett was a senior editor at iLounge. He's been covering the iPod, iPhone, and iPad since their inception. He has written numerous articles and reviews, and his work has been featured in multiple publications.