Apple CEO Tim Cook to Step Down in September 2026

Apple CEO Tim Cook will step down from his role on September 1, 2026, with hardware engineering chief John Ternus set to take over as the company’s next chief executive officer.

Cook will remain as Apple CEO through the summer before moving into a new role as executive chairman. In that role, he will continue to advise Apple and assist with certain aspects of the company, including engagement with policymakers around the world.

Ternus will also join Apple’s Board of Directors. The transition was approved by Apple’s Board of Directors and follows a long-term succession planning process. Apple’s current board chair, Arthur Levinson, will become the lead independent director on the board.

Cook said his time as Apple CEO had been the greatest privilege of his life. He said he was grateful for the opportunity to lead the company and work with Apple’s teams. He described Ternus as the right person to lead Apple into the future.

In a letter to the Apple community, Cook said he starts his day by reading emails from Apple users around the world. He said the messages gave him a sense of gratitude and responsibility during his time as CEO.

Cook said the transition does not mark a goodbye, but a move into a new role at Apple. He thanked Apple users for their confidence and support during his tenure as CEO.

Ternus said he was grateful for the opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward. He said he had spent almost his entire career at Apple and had worked under Steve Jobs, with Cook as his mentor.

Ternus said he was optimistic about what Apple could achieve in the years ahead. He said Apple’s employees would continue working on products and services for users around the world.