Apple (AAPL) is taking steps to keep its top iPhone designers from being lured away by OpenAI and other fast‑growing AI companies. According to Bloomberg, the company has awarded several hundred thousand dollars in extra stock grants to members of the hardware design team.
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The awards come in the form of restricted stock units that vest over four years, giving employees a strong incentive to stay. Most packages range from $200,000 to $400,000, though the final payout will depend on Apple’s stock performance.
Apple Moves to Protect Key Talent
The move comes as the battle for AI talent intensifies across Silicon Valley. OpenAI has been recruiting experienced hardware and software designers as it builds new AI-powered devices.
Meanwhile, Apple is racing to strengthen its own AI roadmap ahead of major product updates expected later this year. The company is likely concerned that losing veteran designers could slow progress on future iPhones and other hardware projects at a time when it is under pressure to show AI improvements.
Also, retaining these teams is especially important as Apple prepares to roll out new on‑device AI features and a revamped version of Siri.
What Is the Price Target for AAPL?
Turning to Wall Street, AAPL stock has a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on 14 Buy, nine Hold, and one Sell recommendations. The average Apple stock price target of $304.40 implies an upside potential of 20.37%.
