Apple choice of Cart hints at design expansion

Apple has shown signs it might expand iOS' notifications or other areas after Jan-Michael Cart revealed that he had been hired as an intern at the company. The University of Georgia student in Mass Media Arts will work at Apple for seven months starting in January. While his exact tasks at Apple likely can't be mentioned, Cart is best known for concept design videos (below) showing how he would improve iOS, such as third-party notifications or using the center for incoming calls.

Like most internships, Cart's could theoretically lead to a full-time position if both he and Apple like the experience. It may give him relatively little authority to directly steer Apple's design choices but could see him contribute minor elements.

Apple has lately taken to hiring both interns and permanent workers from the unofficial community, in many cases even if they operate outside of its usual boundaries. The firm surprised some when it hired JailbreakMe creator Comex as an intern. Earlier, it had picked up jailbreak notification developer Peter Hajas for a permanent position.

Interface design hires brought on to Apple based on specific work are often put to use relatively quickly. Apple hired webOS' notification designer in June 2010 and, just a year later, was showing the results of his work in iOS 5. It's not clear if iOS 6 will show Cart's contributions. [via iPhoneinCanada]

By Electronista Staff