Apple announces Tim Cook to step down as CEO in 2026

Apple has announced a major leadership transition. Tim Cook, who has served as CEO since August 2011, will step down from the position on September 1, 2026. He will be succeeded by John Ternus, the company’s current head of hardware engineering.

Cook will not leave the company entirely; instead, he is set to transition into the role of Executive Chairman of the Board. This move allows him to maintain a significant influence over the company’s future direction.

Reflecting on his tenure, Cook expressed a desire to be remembered as a ‘good and decent man.’ His leadership has been marked by massive financial growth, transforming Apple into one of the world’s most valuable companies and expanding its ecosystem through products like the Apple Watch, AirPods, and Apple Vision Pro, as well as services such as Apple Music and Apple Pay.