Scott Forstall led the software development team that built the original operating systems for the iPhone and iPad. During a tenure at Apple Inc. that spanned nearly two decades, he ascended to senior vice president of iOS software before departing the company in 2013 following internal restructuring and criticism regarding the release of Apple Maps.
Early Education and Academic Foundation
Born in 1968 in Washington, Forstall showed early aptitude for science and mathematics, earning a valedictorian title at Olympic High School. He attended Stanford University, where he joined the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and completed a degree in symbolic systems in 1991. He subsequently earned a master's degree in computer science from the same institution in 1992.
Technical Leadership at NeXT and Apple
Forstall joined Steve Jobs at NeXT in 1992, transitioning to Apple after the 1997 acquisition. He gained prominence in 2000 as a lead designer for the Aqua user interface, which defined the aesthetic of the Macintosh line. As he climbed the corporate hierarchy, he took charge of the Safari web browser project and was promoted to senior vice president in 2003.
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In 2005, Forstall competed against the iPod team to determine the software direction for Apple's upcoming mobile phone. His proposal to adapt the Mac operating system for the iPhone prevailed. He oversaw the creation of the software development kit, allowing third-party developers to build applications, and directed the development of the App Store within iTunes.
Public Roles and Eventual Departure
Forstall served as a primary public face for Apple software, presenting at multiple Worldwide Developers Conferences and launching Siri at the iPhone 4S event. His departure followed the 2012 release of iOS 6, which included a problematic Maps application and a design controversy involving a Swiss railway clock. His responsibilities were distributed among other executives including Jonathan Ive and Craig Federighi.
Work Beyond Technology
Following his exit from the technology sector, Forstall transitioned into theater production. Alongside his wife, Molly Forstall, he has worked as a producer on Broadway projects, including the Tony Award-winning shows Fun Home and Eclipsed.
Fast facts
- Born: 1968, Washington
- Education: Olympic High School, Stanford University
- Key Roles: Senior Vice President of iOS Software at Apple
- Major Projects: Original iPhone and iPad software, Safari, Aqua interface
- Post-Apple Career: Broadway producer
- Education Degrees: Symbolic Systems, Computer Science
Questions readers ask
What was Forstall's role at Apple?
He served as the senior vice president of iOS software, leading the team that developed the operating system for the iPhone and iPad.
Why did Scott Forstall leave Apple?
He left in 2013 following the release of the iOS 6 Maps application, which faced significant public criticism, and reported internal friction with other executives.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Apple Inc.
- Educated at Stanford University and Olympic High School
- Worked as programmer and computer scientist
