Apple CEO Tim Cook will step down from his role effective September 1, 2026, paving the way for Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering John Ternus to assume leadership. Cook will remain with the company as executive chairman, focusing on strategic initiatives and global policy engagement. In his statement, Cook praised Apple’s team and legacy, calling it “the greatest privilege of my life” to lead the firm.

Ternus, known for overseeing critical hardware projects, vowed to uphold Apple’s “values and vision” in his new role. Apple’s leadership shift marks a pivotal moment, blending institutional continuity with fresh perspectives from its engineering ranks.