The designer of Apple’s iconic iPod has been honoured with the President’s Medal at the annual Royal Academy of Engineering awards.

Jonathan Ive, the London born vice president of industrial design at Apple, was awarded the medal for his contribution to promoting engineering excellence.

The iPod and its’ offspring the iPod Mini, shuffle and now photo edition, has spawned numerous impersonators. But none have gained the same level of recognition amongst music and design fans.

Mr Ive’s other designs for Apple have included the G4 Cube, the iMac and the iBook.

Last night’s awards, nicknamed the “engineering Oscars”, also included medals recognising British engineering, achievements and for the first time this year a Lifetime Achievement award.

The ceremony took place in London and was attended by the minister for science, Lord Sainsbury.

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