iPhone designer Jony Ive to leave Apple

Sir Jony Ive, the Briton who over two decades helped turn Apple into the world’s most valuable company, is leaving to set up his own venture.

Mr Ive, designer of the Mac, iPod and iPhone, leaves later this year to start a creative business called LoveFrom, with Apple as its first client.

“This just seems like a natural and gentle time to make this change,” he said.

Apple boss Tim Cook said his “role in Apple’s revival cannot be overstated”.

But the departure comes at a time of wider change at the tech giant. Retail chief Angela Ahrendts left in April and investors have been worried about falling iPhone sales.

Mr Ive said in a statement: “After nearly 30 years and countless projects, I am most proud of the lasting work we have done to…