Tim Cook steps down as Apple CEO after 15 years

September 1, 2026 at 08:18 PM1 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Tim Cook stepped down as Apple CEO on September 1 after 15 years in the role. John Ternus, previously senior vice president of hardware engineering, succeeded him. Cook will remain as executive chairman of the board.

Key Facts

Tim Cook led Apple for 15 years, starting in August 2011 after succeeding Steve Jobs.
Under Cook, Apple's revenue grew nearly fourfold and market capitalization increased twelvefold, exceeding $5 trillion in summer 2026.
John Ternus, 50, previously head of hardware engineering, became Apple CEO on September 1.
Apple's active devices surpassed 2.5 billion during Cook's tenure.
Cook announced his departure in a farewell post on X, stating his role would change the next day.

Leadership Transition

Tim Cook published a farewell message on X on his last day as CEO, writing that his position would change the following day but his love for the Apple community would remain. Cook had served as CEO since August 2011, taking over from Steve Jobs. John Ternus, 50, who previously led Apple's hardware engineering division, assumed the CEO role on September 1. Cook will continue at Apple as executive chairman of the board of directors.

Cook's Legacy

During Cook's 15-year tenure, Apple's revenue grew nearly fourfold and its market capitalization rose from $348 billion in 2011 to a record $5 trillion in summer 2026. The number of active Apple devices exceeded 2.5 billion. Under Cook, Apple launched Apple Watch, AirPods, the Apple Silicon M-series chips, and expanded services including Apple Music, iCloud, and Apple Pay.

Upcoming Product Event

Apple's first fall product presentation under Ternus is expected next week, featuring a new generation of iPhone.