Apple Names John Ternus as New CEO; Tim Cook to Transition to Executive Chairman

John Ternus, who joined Apple’s product design team in 2001, has been a key figure in the hardware development of the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.

RMN Digital Corporate Desk
New Delhi | April 21, 2026

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA — Apple has announced a major leadership transition, naming John Ternus, currently the senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, as its next chief executive officer, effective September 1, 2026. Tim Cook, who has led the tech giant as CEO since 2011, will transition to the role of executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors.

The leadership change was approved unanimously by the Board of Directors and follows a “thoughtful, long-term succession planning process”. Cook is slated to remain in his current role through the summer to ensure a smooth transition alongside Ternus. As executive chairman, Cook will continue to assist with specific aspects of the company, including engaging with global policymakers.

A Legacy of Growth

Tim Cook’s tenure as CEO has been marked by staggering financial success and the expansion of Apple’s product ecosystem. Under his leadership, Apple’s market capitalization grew from approximately $350 billion to $4 trillion, and yearly revenue nearly quadrupled to over $416 billion by fiscal year 2025.

Cook oversaw the introduction of entirely new categories, such as the Apple Watch, AirPods, and Apple Vision Pro, and spearheaded the transition to Apple-designed silicon. He was also responsible for transforming Apple Services into a business generating more than $100 billion annually. Reflecting on his time, Cook stated it was the “greatest privilege” of his life to lead the company.

The Next Generation of Leadership

John Ternus, who joined Apple’s product design team in 2001, has been a key figure in the hardware development of the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Most recently, his team led the introduction of the redefined iPhone 17 lineup and the all-new MacBook Neo. Ternus also drove innovations in AirPods, turning them into an all-in-one hearing health system.

“John Ternus has the mind of an engineer, the soul of an innovator, and the heart to lead with integrity and with honor,” Cook said in the announcement. Ternus, who described Cook as a mentor and previously worked under Steve Jobs, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward, promising to lead with the values that have defined the company for half a century.

Board Reorganization

In addition to the CEO transition, Arthur Levinson, Apple’s non-executive chairman for the past 15 years, will transition to the role of lead independent director on September 1, 2026. Ternus will also join the board of directors on the same date. Levinson praised Cook’s “unprecedented and outstanding leadership” and expressed full confidence in Ternus as the best possible successor.