Tim Cook steps down as Apple CEO

Leadership transition approved by board set for September 2026

(41NBC/WMGT)- Apple announced that Tim Cook will become executive chairman while John Ternus will take over as chief executive officer.

The changes take effect Sept. 1, 2026, following what the company described as a long-term succession planning process approved unanimously by its board of directors.

Cook will remain CEO through the summer and work with Ternus on the transition. In his new role as executive chairman, Cook will continue to support the company, including engaging with policymakers.

“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple,” Cook said.

Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become CEO and join the company’s board of directors.

“I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward,” Ternus said.

Cook joined Apple in 1998 and has served as CEO since 2011.

Ternus joined Apple in 2001 and currently serves as senior vice president of Hardware Engineering.