Cupertino: Tim Cook has announced he will step down as Chief Executive Officer of Apple after nearly 15 years, marking the end of a transformative era for the global technology giant. Cook will transition to the role of executive chairman on September 1, 2026, handing over leadership to John Ternus, the company’s head of hardware engineering.
A legacy of growth and innovation
Cook took over as CEO in 2011 from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and went on to lead the company through a period of unprecedented expansion. During his tenure, Apple launched major products and services such as the Apple Watch, Apple Music and Apple TV+.
Under his leadership, Apple became the first US company to reach a market valuation of $1 trillion in 2018 and later soared to $4 trillion in 2022. When Cook assumed charge, the company’s market capitalisation stood at around $350 billion, highlighting the scale of growth achieved during his tenure.
‘Best job in the world,’ says Cook
In a deeply personal letter addressed to the Apple community, Cook described his role as CEO as the “best job in the world”. He reflected on his daily routine of reading emails from Apple users across the globe, sharing how their stories shaped his journey.
“You share little pieces of your lives with me and tell me things you want me to know about how Apple has touched you,” Cook wrote, emphasising the emotional connection between the company and its users.
He spoke about how messages from customers—ranging from life-saving moments involving the Apple Watch to everyday achievements captured on Apple devices—gave him a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Gratitude and emotional reflection
Cook expressed profound gratitude for having led a company that “ignites imaginations and enriches lives”. He acknowledged the privilege of being at the receiving end of millions of user experiences and stories.
“I feel a gratitude that I cannot put into words… What an honour and a privilege it has been,” he wrote, underscoring the emotional weight of his decision.
The outgoing CEO also thanked Apple users personally, saying their trust and support had shaped his life in meaningful ways.
John Ternus to lead Apple’s next chapter
Cook described John Ternus as “the perfect person for the job”, praising his 25 years of experience in building Apple’s products.
He highlighted Ternus’s attention to detail and commitment to innovation, stating that Apple would continue to reach new heights under his leadership. Cook added that users would soon experience Ternus’s impact through future products and services.
‘This is not goodbye’
Despite stepping down as CEO, Cook clarified that he is not leaving Apple entirely. He will continue to serve on the company’s board as executive chairman, remaining actively involved in its future direction.
“This is not goodbye,” Cook wrote, signalling his continued association with the company during this period of transition.
Conclusion
Tim Cook’s departure as CEO marks a significant milestone in Apple’s history. His tenure not only expanded the company’s global footprint but also strengthened its emotional connection with users. As John Ternus prepares to take charge, Apple enters a new phase while carrying forward the legacy built over the past decade and a half.