Tim Cook steps down as Apple CEO, handing over role to hardware chief Ternus

Apple said Tim Cook will step down as CEO later in 2026 and John Ternus will take over on September 1, 2026.

Cook will move into the executive chairman role, while Johny Srouji was promoted to chief hardware officer in the internal succession plan.

The transition suggests continuity at Apple, with a possible greater focus on hardware and engineering amid competition in AI, mixed reality, and services.