MUMBAI: Apple has named Arthur D Levinson as the company?s non-executive chairman of the board. Levinson, who has been a co-lead director of Apple?s board since 2005, has served on all three board committees- audit and finance, nominating and corporate governance, and compensation-and will continue to serve on the audit committee.

Apple also announced that Disney president, CEO Robert A Iger will join Apple?s board and will serve on the audit committee.

Apple CEO Tim Cook said, "Art has made enormous contributions to Apple since he joined the board in 2000. He has been our longest serving co-lead director, and his insight and leadership are incredibly valuable to Apple, our employees and our shareholders.

"Bob and I have gotten to know one another very well over the past few years and on behalf of the entire board, we think he is going to make an extraordinary addition to our already very strong board. His strategic vision for Disney is based on three fundamentals: generating the best creative content possible, fostering innovation and utilising the latest technology, and expanding into new markets around the world which makes him a great fit for Apple."

Levinson said, "I am honoured to be named chairman of Apple?s board and welcome Bob to our team. Apple is always focused on out-innovating itself through the delivery of truly innovative products that simplify and improve our lives, and that is something I am very proud to be a part of."

Iger said, "Apple has achieved unprecedented success by consistently creating high quality, truly innovative products, and I am extremely pleased to join the board of such a wonderful company. Over the years, I have come to know and admire the management team, now ably led by Tim Cook, and I am confident they have the leadership and vision to ensure Apple?s continued momentum and success."