Apple head of design bestowed with knighthood

by Steven Mostyn - Jan 2 2012, 09:16

British designer and Apple’s longstanding head of design Jonathan Ive has been honored by the British Monarchy this week in light of his outstanding contribution to the world of consumer electronics.

According to the annual New Year Honours list, the designer has been made a Knight Commander of the British Empire (KBE), which means he will now be known as Sir Jonathan Ive.

After joining Apple in 1992, the forward-thinking designer soon rose to prominence when his colorful and translucent iMac design propelled the flagging company back into the computer spotlight.

Ive subsequently went on to work in close conjunction with recently deceased Apple CEO Steve Jobs in crafting the iPod music player, the iPhone handset, and the iPad computer.

In describing his reaction to the knighthood, Ive said it was “absolutely thrilling” and that he was “humbled and sincerely grateful” to receive such an honor.

The knighthood bestowed upon Ive is the second major honor handed down from the palace. In 2006 he was awarded the title Commander of the British Empire (CBE).

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