Google CEO resigns from Apple's board of directors

Posted on 4 Aug 2009 at 14:27

Apple has announced that Google's Chief Executive Eric Schmidt has resigned from Apple's board after three years at the table.

The announcement comes as no surprise, as Google has continually expanded into markets already occupied by Apple. Google first encroached on Apple's ground when it released its Android operating system for mobile phones and a second encounter quickly followed when the search giant released its Chrome web browser.

This led to the Federal Trade Commission launching an investigation in May, which would probe the two companies for potential anti competitive practices as a result of Schmidt's role on both boards. Schmidt was adamant that there was "no issue" when Google announced that it was building a desktop operating system (and entering a third market as a competitor to Apple), but said that he'd consult the Apple board.

"Eric has been an excellent Board member for Apple, investing his valuable time, talent, passion and wisdom to help make Apple successful," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO.

"Unfortunately, as Google enters more of Apple's core businesses, with Android and now Chrome OS, Eric's effectiveness as an Apple Board member will be significantly diminished, since he will have to recuse himself from even larger portions of our meetings due to potential conflicts of interest. Therefore, we have mutually decided that now is the right time for Eric to resign his position on Apple's Board."

Author: Tim Smalley

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