I applied through an employee referral. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Apple (Cupertino, CA) in Feb 2011
Interview
2 full days of interviews spread across 2 weeks. The position is fairly senior and cross-functional in nature, interfacing between two major groups. The position required wide range of technical knowledge as well as management experience. I blew the process by not answering in enough detail about team building and management experience. I was concentrating too much on being technical and mis-read the importance of questions from one of the key interviewers.
Apple has many disciplines of talent, make sure your understand the discipline of the interviewer as they look for different traits. An industrial designer make ask the same questions as an electrical engineer, but they don't always expect the same answer.
Good luck.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
I would you investigate a technology with-out letting anyone know you were investigating it?
Somewhat difficult, but everyone was extremely nice . I recommend practicing code and a couple behavioral questions. I asked 2 questions both times and they were impressed like that as well. Explaining my thought process out loud seemed to go well.
The guidance provided was very thorough, and I was able to follow the instructions for the interview process without any issues. By taking the time to prepare yourself properly, you should have no trouble navigating the interview and completing it successfully. The process is clear, and with the right preparation, you can approach it with confidence.
I had an initial phone interview for an hour. They asked about previous experience and then interleaved them with some technical questions. Finally, they ask the main interview questions toward the end.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about yourself.
Question about design approaches.
Question about designs trade-offs.