After 15 years at the helm of Apple, Tim Cook is stepping down as the company's CEO on September 1, 2026. Cook will move into the role of Executive Chairman, while longtime Apple hardware executive John Ternus takes over as CEO.

Apple announced the leadership transition in April, describing it as the result of a carefully planned, long-term succession process. Cook remained involved in the transition through the summer to help ensure a smooth handover.

Tim Cook Shares an Emotional Message

As his final day as CEO arrived, Cook shared a message expressing his gratitude to the Apple community.

He made it clear that although his position was changing, he was not leaving Apple. Cook said he would miss the work and the experience of leading Apple's employees, while expressing confidence in Ternus as his successor.

Cook has also described being Apple's CEO as one of the greatest privileges of his life and has repeatedly praised the company's employees for their creativity, innovation and dedication.

What Changed at Apple During Cook's 15 Years?

Cook became Apple's CEO in August 2011, succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs. His tenure saw Apple expand well beyond its traditional dependence on the iPhone.

Several major products and technologies were introduced during this period, including the Apple Watch in 2015, AirPods in 2016 and Apple Vision Pro in 2024.

Apple also made a major transition in its Mac business by moving away from Intel processors and developing its own Apple Silicon chips.

The company's retail presence in India also expanded significantly, with Apple's first two company-owned stores in the country opening in Mumbai and Delhi in 2023.

Why Is Tim Cook Stepping Down?

Apple has presented the transition as a planned leadership change rather than a sudden departure.

Cook had previously explained that several factors came together at the right time: Apple's business was strong, its product pipeline was robust and John Ternus was ready to take on the CEO role.

The succession process was approved unanimously by Apple's board, reflecting the company's intention to make the changeover as orderly as possible.

Tim Cook Will Still Have an Important Role at Apple

Cook is not retiring from Apple.

As Executive Chairman, he will continue to contribute to certain areas of the company, including engagement with policymakers around the world. His experience and relationships are expected to remain valuable as Apple navigates important international business and regulatory issues.

Meanwhile, Arthur D. Levinson, who has served as Apple's non-executive chairman for the past 15 years, will become the company's lead independent director.

Who Is John Ternus?

John Ternus is a veteran Apple executive who has spent much of his career working on the company's hardware.

He joined Apple in 2001 and eventually became Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. In that position, he has overseen hardware engineering teams responsible for products including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, AirPods and Apple Vision Pro.

Before joining Apple, Ternus worked as a mechanical engineer at Virtual Research Systems. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pennsylvania.

Ternus Faces a Major Challenge

Taking over Apple is an enormous responsibility, particularly at a time when the technology industry is undergoing rapid changes driven by artificial intelligence.

Ternus will have to maintain Apple's reputation for hardware innovation while navigating challenges involving AI, global manufacturing, supply chains and international relations.

His experience with Apple's product development could prove valuable as the company enters its next phase.

The End of One Era and the Beginning of Another

Tim Cook's departure from the CEO position marks one of the most significant leadership changes in Apple's recent history. However, because Cook will remain closely connected to the company as Executive Chairman, the transition is more of a change in responsibilities than a complete goodbye.

Now, with John Ternus taking charge, the focus shifts to how Apple will evolve under a leader who has spent decades helping build the products that define the company.