Apple is ending its longest leadership era in company history. Tim Cook will step down as chief executive officer on September 1, 2026. This transition marks the first time in 15 years that the company will operate under new executive direction. The change matters to buyers because it signals a shift in product strategy and corporate priorities for the upcoming hardware cycle.
Hardware chief John Ternus assumes leadership ahead of iPhone 18 launch
John Ternus, Apple’s hardware engineering chief, will assume the role of CEO. Ternus becomes the third chief executive in Apple’s history since 1997. He follows Steve Jobs and Tim Cook in leading the technology giant. Cook will remain with the company as executive chairman of the board.
Cook emphasized that he is not leaving Apple altogether. He will stay involved in specific aspects of the business. His new role includes engaging with policymakers around the world. This structure ensures continuity in high-level governance while delegating daily operations to Ternus.
Ternus faces immediate pressure to deliver on his first major product event. Apple has scheduled this event for September 9, 2026. The company is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro lineup at this gathering. A foldable iPhone, reportedly called the iPhone Ultra, is also expected to launch.
The leadership change coincides with a significant hardware refresh. Ternus’s engineering background positions him to oversee the introduction of new form factors. The upcoming foldable device represents a major departure from Apple’s traditional smartphone design. This leadership transition reflects significant shifts in the mobile technology sector.
Source: NotebookCheck
