Apple’s Dan Riccio shifts from hardware chief to AR, VR headsets

Apple Inc. executive Dan Riccio is focusing on the company’s upcoming virtual and augmented reality devices after he shed his role as the head of hardware engineering, according to people with knowledge of the move.

Last month, the Cupertino, California-based technology giant said Riccio was stepping down and being replaced by top lieutenant John Ternus. At the time, Apple said Riccio was shifting to a “new project” without specifying.

That new project is overseeing the team developing future Apple AR and VR headsets, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing internal matters. An Apple spokesman declined to comment.