Tim Cook has officially ended his 15-year run as Apple’s chief executive officer. John Ternus, who led hardware engineering at Apple, has now taken the top job. The transition became effective on September 1, 2026.
Cook first became CEO in August 2011. He took over from Steve Jobs, who died just six weeks after stepping aside due to illness. At the time, many doubted anyone could fill Jobs’ shoes. Cook went on to prove them wrong.
Under his leadership, Apple grew into the most valuable company in the world. The iPhone maker crossed the $1 trillion market cap mark and later hit $4 trillion. Cook also introduced major products during his tenure. These include the Apple Watch, AirPods, Apple Pay, and Apple TV Plus.
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Apple’s board approved the transition unanimously. The move followed a long-term succession planning process. Cook will not be leaving the company entirely, however. He will now serve as executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors. In that role, he will focus on specific responsibilities. These include engaging with global policymakers and maintaining key relationships, including with the Chinese government and the Trump administration.
Ternus, who is 50 years old, joined Apple in 2001. He started on the product design team after a brief stint as a mechanical engineer. Over the years, he rose steadily through the ranks. He became senior vice president of hardware engineering in 2021. In that position, he oversaw work on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods, and Vision Pro.
Reports from Bloomberg and other outlets had tipped Ternus as the frontrunner for months. Apple’s board also named Arthur Levinson as lead independent director. Levinson had served as non-executive chairman for 15 years. Johny Srouji and Tom Marieb have stepped into expanded roles to take over responsibilities Ternus previously held.
On his final day as CEO, Cook sent a farewell memo to Apple staff. He thanked employees for what the company achieved under his watch. He also praised Ternus, describing him as someone with the mind of an engineer and the heart to lead with integrity.
Ternus responded with his own message. He said he felt humbled to step into the role. He also promised to lead with the same values that have defined Apple for decades.
Ternus takes charge at a busy moment for Apple. The company is preparing for its usual fall product rollout. This year’s lineup is expected to include Apple’s first foldable iPhone. A new smart display is also on the way, according to reports. Ternus reportedly plans to keep a strong focus on artificial intelligence as he settles into the role.
Cook’s exit marks the end of one of the most successful runs in corporate history. He leads Apple into a new era, one built by a hardware chief who spent nearly his entire career at the company.
