Tim Cook to step down as Apple CEO in shock announcement

Macworld In a surprise announcement on Monday afternoon, Apple announced that Tim Cook will step down as CEO on September 1, 2026, and John Ternus, current Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, will take over. Cook will remain at Apple in an advisory role as executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors. It has been rumored that Tim Cook was considering retirement, but the timing of the announcement is surprising. Apple says the decision “follows a thoughtful, long-term succession planning process,” and Cook will work closely with Ternus on a “smooth transition.” In a statement, Cook said: I love Apple with all of my being, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a team of such ingenious, innovative, creative, and deeply caring people who have been unwavering in their dedication to enriching the lives of our customers and creating the best products and services in the world. John Ternus has the mind of an engineer, the soul of