Apple Appoints John Ternus as New CEO, Succeeding Tim Cook

Tue Apr 21 2026 03:30:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

John Ternus, a long-term Apple executive, is set to take over as CEO in September 2026, following Tim Cook's announcement of his departure after 15 years of leadership.

Apple has announced that John Ternus will become its new chief executive on September 1, 2026, replacing Tim Cook, who will transition to executive chairman after 15 years at the helm. Ternus has been with Apple for 25 years and previously led hardware engineering. Cook praised Ternus as a visionary leader, emphasizing his innovative mindset and integrity. Ternus will inherit a company valued at $4 trillion and aims to boost innovation in Apple's product line amid increasing competition in the tech industry.

Apple Appoints John Ternus as New CEO, Succeeding Tim Cook

Apple has named John Ternus as its new chief executive to replace Tim Cook, who is stepping down after 15 years of leading the technology giant.

Ternus, currently the head of hardware engineering and a 25-year veteran at Apple, will officially take over on September 1. Cook will transition to the role of executive chairman.

Cook has been with Apple since 2011 when he succeeded co-founder Steve Jobs, leading the company to become one of the most valuable in the world. During his tenure, Apple became the first public company to reach a valuation of $1 trillion, now worth $4 trillion.

Cook expressed his support for Ternus, calling him a 'visionary' with an innovative mindset and a strong sense of integrity. 'He is without question the right person to lead Apple into the future,' Cook added.

The announcement comes after months of speculation about who would succeed Cook. Analysts believe Ternus’s appointment signals a strategic shift towards innovation in Apple’s product offerings, especially in areas like foldable phones and wearable technology.

As Cook leaves the CEO position, he plans to assist in certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers, while working alongside Ternus during the transition. Ternus expressed optimism about Apple’s future, stating, 'I am filled with optimism about what we can achieve in the years to come.'

The appointment aims to shift the narrative of Apple's recent years, which saw substantial profit growth under Cook but also criticisms of a stagnant product line.