Tim Cook stepping down this year, John Ternus confirmed as next Apple CEO

Apple announced a leadership transition in which Tim Cook will leave the CEO role and become executive chairman.

John Ternus is set to become CEO on September 1, 2026, following a board-approved succession process.

The move ends more than a decade of Cook’s tenure as Apple’s top executive.

The change could influence Apple’s strategy, product direction, and policy posture going forward.