Apple Announces Leadership Change as Tim Cook Becomes Chairman

Apple Announces Leadership Change as Tim Cook Becomes Chairman

Apple has announced a major leadership transition, with Tim Cook set to step down as chief executive and assume the role of executive chairman. Hardware chief John Ternus will take over as CEO effective September 1, 2026, following what the company described as a long-planned succession process.

John Ternus to take over as CEO as Apple prepares for next phase of growth

Cook, who has led Apple since 2011, will remain closely involved with the company, focusing on strategic initiatives and engagement with global policymakers. The transition marks the first change in Apple’s top leadership in more than a decade.

During his tenure, Cook oversaw a period of significant growth, expanding Apple’s business beyond the iPhone into services and wearables while guiding the company to become one of the most valuable in the world.

His successor, John Ternus, has spent more than two decades at Apple and currently serves as senior vice president of hardware engineering. He has played a key role in the development of major products, including the transition to Apple-designed chips across the Mac lineup.

The leadership change comes at a time when Apple faces increasing competition in artificial intelligence, an area where rivals have moved aggressively. Analysts say Ternus will be tasked with maintaining Apple’s product strength while accelerating its position in emerging technologies.

Despite the shift, Apple emphasized continuity, noting that the transition follows a carefully prepared plan and is not linked to any immediate operational challenges.