CBS/AP/ October 30, 2012, 1:50 PM

Report: Apple exec refused to apologize for Maps

Apple

The head of Apple's iPhone software development was asked to resign after he refused to sign a letter apologizing for the flaws of Apple's mapping application, according to a published report.

The Wall Street Journal says Scott Forstall's refusal was the latest clash between him and other executives, and led to the company's announcement Monday that he is stepping down and leaving the company next year.

Forstall's unit was responsible for the Maps application, which was unfavorably compared to the Google Maps app it replaced.

Apple also announced the immediate departure of John Browett, a British retail executive who took over Apple's stores in April.

Apple came under fire for dropping Google Maps from its latest mobile operating system iOS 6, which is pre-installed on all iPhone 5s.

The new mobile operating system dropped the Google Maps app, which had been included in the iPhone since its initial release in 2007, opting for its own Apple Maps app instead.

CEO Tim Cook apologized to Apple fans for not meeting expectations in a letter posted on Apple's website.

© 2012 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
6 Comments Add a Comment
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hypnotoad72 says:
Another case of "YOU'RE HOLDING IT WRONG!"

The previous CEO knew of the faulty phone design but put it out for customers, to later blame them. I've posted links before on that.

How did they not know their Maps system would produce inaccurate results? You can't tell me this company is so small and broke it can't hire a couple of QC analysts or anything...

Good grief...

Apple gets more dishonorable with each passing day.
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craniest says:
he probably couldn't find the pen. Or the letter. Or the desk.
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Tater-salad says:
Android.
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rwsmith29456 says:
If he's not concerned about defective products he shouldn't have been there in the first place.
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hypnotoad72 replies:
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Companies exist to make as much profit for as little work involved as possible.

Maybe ethics and morals had a time and place, but that's a little too 20th century for the new normal's liking...
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PuleeezeGetReal says:
An apology doesn't cover the inconvenience, Apple should do more. I am sure this person had to answer to somebody higher up.
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