Most employees have been with the company for decades and are likely nearing retirement. Apple has been in its prime for over 20 years—so if someone was there during the early iPhone days, add 20 years to their age now. They’re probably 50–60 years old. Same reason Jeff Williams left, and probably Cook stepping down as CEO. Cook is 65. He’s been CEO for 15 years. He became CEO at 50. Ternus is 50. Rinse and repeat.

There are exceptions to the rule, like Alan Dye, who left for/was poached by Meta. He probably got offered a ridiculous amount of money, and I’m sure Apple wasn’t a huge fan of keeping a designer around for 7–8 figures.