Apple Names Hardware Chief John Ternus as Next CEO, Tim Cook Moves to Executive Chairman Role
Summary
Apple is making a major leadership shift as Tim Cook transitions to Executive Chairman and hardware engineering chief John Ternus takes over as CEO, effective September 1, 2026, marking the end of a transformative era and the beginning of a new chapter led by a 25-year Apple veteran.
Key Points
- Apple announces that Tim Cook is transitioning from CEO to Executive Chairman of the board of directors, effective September 1, 2026, where he will focus on policy engagement and supporting the company's leadership transition.
- John Ternus, currently Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering and a 25-year Apple veteran, is stepping up to become Apple's next CEO on September 1, 2026, bringing deep technical expertise and a track record of leading major product innovations across iPhone, Mac, iPad, and AirPods.
- Arthur Levinson, Apple's non-executive chairman for the past 15 years, is shifting to the role of lead independent director, while Ternus is joining the board of directors, both changes also taking effect on September 1, 2026.