Apple Newsroom, with a veritable “boom”:
Apple announced that Tim Cook will become executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors and John Ternus, senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become Apple’s next chief executive officer effective on September 1, 2026. The transition, which was approved unanimously by the Board of Directors, follows a thoughtful, long-term succession planning process.
Cook will continue in his role as CEO through the summer as he works closely with Ternus on a smooth transition. As executive chairman, Cook will assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world.
Ternus will become the 8th CEO in Apple’s 50-year history:
- Mike Scott, 1977–1981
- Mike Markkula, 1981–1983
- John Sculley, 1983–1993
- Michael Spindler, 1993–1996
- Gil Amelio, 1996–1997
- Steve Jobs, 1997–2011
- Tim Cook, 2011–2026
At just over 50 years old — the same age Cook was when he took the job — Ternus is young enough for decade-plus run, joining only Sculley, Jobs, and Cook.
In a separate announcement: “Johny Srouji Named Apple’s Chief Hardware Officer”.
This is all very exciting, but also all very low on drama. It’s all very, very Cook-ian.