Apple names hardware chief John Ternus as next CEO, with Tim Cook moving to executive chairman in September 2026

Apple says Tim Cook will step down as CEO on September 1, 2026, and become executive chairman, while hardware engineering chief John Ternus takes over as CEO. The company says the board unanimously approved the move after a long-term succession process, with Cook supporting the transition through the summer.

Choosing Ternus signals Apple is prioritizing hardware leadership and product execution as it enters its next era. Cook’s move to executive chairman should provide continuity, especially in policy and regulatory engagement, while giving Ternus room to define Apple’s product strategy.