John Ternus Takes Over as Apple CEO After Tim Cook's 15-Year Run

Tim Cook became Apple's CEO in 2011, taking over from Steve Jobs after his resignation. Under Cook's leadership, Apple's value soared from about $350 billion to over $4.5 trillion, driven largely by the success of the iPhone and expansion into new product categories, according to The Hindu and the Sydney Morning Herald.

Despite Cook's financial achievements and a reputation for operational excellence, critics and analysts noted some challenges. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Cook's tenure made Apple a safe bet for investors but did not resolve every strategic issue. As Cook prepared to step down, attention turned to his successor and the challenges ahead for the world's most valuable tech company.

On September 1, 2026, Apple officially announced John Ternus as its new CEO. Ternus, a longtime Apple executive who led hardware engineering, became only the third CEO of Apple in the last 30 years, as reported by Deutsche Welle. The transition was confirmed across several outlets, including The Hill, CNBC, and Al Jazeera, all noting the historic nature of the change.

Ternus started his first day with a memo to Apple employees, thanking them and giving a first hint at his plans, AppleInsider reported. He also acknowledged the legacy of Tim Cook. The company updated its leadership page and announced compensation packages: Ternus will receive a $58 million pay package for fiscal 2027, while Cook, who is staying on as executive chairman, will earn $47 million, according to [Bloomberg Technology](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2026-08-30/the-ternus-era-at-apple-begins-but-cook-isn-t-leaving).

The timing of the transition comes as Apple faces significant challenges. CNBC and CNET highlighted two main issues: an intensifying global memory crunch and a faltering AI strategy. The company is also preparing for a major product launch rumored to include the first foldable iPhone, as reported by TechCrunch.

Industry leaders and tech watchers responded quickly. Tim Sweeney of Epic Games posted a public message to Ternus, urging Apple to pursue new growth strategies. Elon Musk also congratulated Ternus on social media, according to the Times of India.

John Ternus is now Apple's CEO, with his leadership officially underway as of September 1. The company's leadership page, compensation structure, and internal communications reflect the transition. Tim Cook remains involved as executive chairman, signaling a period of continuity as well as change.

Apple's stock rose by 2.2 percent following the announcement, according to Al Jazeera, showing initial investor confidence but also heightened expectations. Ternus faces immediate scrutiny over Apple's AI direction, supply chain pressures, and the need for fresh innovation.

Apple's next major product launch is set for next week, with strong rumors of a foldable iPhone. Ternus's approach to AI, talent retention, and hardware innovation will be closely watched by investors and the tech industry. The company's ability to maintain its dominance and adapt to new challenges will define this new era.