International
oi-Oneindia Staff
Tim Cook is ending his 15-year tenure as Apple CEO, closing one of the longest leadership chapters in the technology giant’s history. Cook, who became chief executive in 2011 after succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs, will move into the role of executive chairman, while John Ternus will take over as CEO on September 1. Apple announced the succession plan in April after it was unanimously approved by the company’s board.
Tim Cook concludes his 15-year Apple CEO tenure on September 1, becoming executive chairman, with John Ternus appointed CEO after board approval. Cook, CEO since 2011, oversaw significant product expansion, and Ternus’s leadership begins ahead of the September 9, 2026 product event.
Tim Cook’s New Role at Apple
Cook is not leaving Apple completely. As executive chairman, he will continue helping the company with selected responsibilities, including engaging with policymakers around the world. The transition allows Apple to retain Cook’s experience while giving Ternus control over its day-to-day operations.
Cook joined Apple in 1998 and later became its chief operating officer before taking over as CEO. His expertise in operations and supply-chain management played an important role in Apple’s growth.
Apple’s Product Expansion Under Cook
Apple expanded well beyond the iPhone during Cook’s leadership, launching products and services including the Apple Watch, AirPods and Vision Pro. His departure comes as Apple prepares for another major phase of product development, particularly in artificial intelligence and new hardware.
Cook has also spoken about the need for technology to serve people responsibly. “What all of us have to do is to make sure we are using AI in a way that is for the benefit of humanity, not to the detriment of humanity.”
September 9 Apple Event Will Test New CEO
The timing of the leadership change is particularly significant because Ternus will take charge just eight days before Apple’s next major product event. Apple has officially scheduled its September event for September 9, 2026, at 10:30 PM IST, under the tagline “Surprise and shine.”
The event is expected to feature the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, along with Apple’s first foldable iPhone, which has been widely rumoured to be called the iPhone Ultra. New Apple Watch models and other products could also be announced.
The September 9 event will therefore be Ternus’s first major product launch as Apple CEO. While the exact products and specifications will only be confirmed by Apple at the event, the occasion gives Ternus an immediate opportunity to establish his leadership as the company enters a new era.
For Cook, the transition marks the end of his time running Apple day to day, but not the end of his relationship with the company. As executive chairman, he will remain involved while Ternus takes responsibility for Apple’s next chapter.
