In a significant leadership change, Tim Cook is set to step down as the chief executive officer of Apple, with John Ternus, who currently serves as the senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, appointed as his successor. This announcement was made by the Cupertino-based company today, marking a pivotal transition as Cook prepares to assume the role of executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors effective September 1, 2026.
Cook's tenure as CEO, which began following Steve Jobs' resignation in 2011, has been marked by substantial growth and transformation within Apple. Over the past fifteen years, the company has experienced a remarkable doubling of its revenue and profit, benefiting from the broader boom in the technology sector. However, Cook's leadership style has contrasted with that of his predecessor, as he is known for a more measured and less intense approach to management.
While Apple has successfully launched products like the Apple Watch and AirPods during Cook's leadership, not all initiatives have met the same level of success. For instance, more ambitious projects such as the Apple Vision Pro have yet to achieve significant market impact.
A Hardware Guy at the Helm
John Ternus, who will take over as CEO in September, has been with Apple for over 25 years and has played a crucial role in the company's engineering and hardware development. He will collaborate with Cook throughout the summer to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.
In his new capacity as executive chairman, Cook will remain actively involved in certain aspects of Apple's operations. According to the company, he will focus on engaging with policymakers globally, a role that has become increasingly vital as Apple navigates complex regulatory environments. This involvement has been particularly noteworthy amid the shifting political landscape in the United States, including challenges posed by the previous administration.
In a notable instance of this engagement, Cook visited the White House in August 2025 to present a unique statue crafted from 24-karat gold and the same durable glass used in Apple products. This meeting occurred shortly after former President Trump threatened to impose tariffs on electronics, including microchips, highlighting the intersection of technology and policy.
As Ternus steps into the CEO role, he will be succeeded by Johny Srouji, who is currently the senior vice president of Hardware Technologies. Srouji is recognized for his significant contributions to Apple’s successful venture into creating its own silicon chips, which power various products, including the iPhone, iPad, and the latest MacBook Neo.
This transition of leadership marks a new chapter for Apple as it continues to innovate and adapt in an ever-evolving technology landscape. The company has consistently been at the forefront of industry trends, and with Ternus at the helm, many are eager to see how he will steer Apple forward in the coming years.
Source: SlashGear News