Who is John Ternus? Apple's new CEO, replacing Tim Cook, as he moves to a new role

In a significant shift for one of the world's most prominent tech companies, Apple has revealed that Tim Cook will resign from his role as chief executive officer, transitioning to the position of executive chairman of the board on September 1, 2026. John Ternus, who currently serves as the senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, has been unanimously appointed by the board to take over as CEO. Cook will continue to oversee operations until the end of the summer, collaborating closely with Ternus to ensure a seamless transition. Even after stepping down, Cook plans to remain involved with the company, engaging with global policymakers and overseeing certain projects. Reflecting on his tenure, Cook expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Apple over the past 15 years, calling it the greatest privilege of his life. He praised the company’s innovative culture and the dedication of his team to enhancing customer experiences through high-quality products and services. John Ternus has been a key player at Apple since he joined the product design team in 2001. His ascent through the ranks includes becoming a vice president of Hardware Engineering in 2013 and joining the executive team in 2021. Ternus has played a vital role in the development of numerous iconic products, including the iPad, AirPods, and various iPhone models, as well as the Mac and Apple Watch. He has notably contributed to the latest innovations in the iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, and has been instrumental in enhancing the AirPods, which have evolved into a comprehensive hearing health solution. Ternus has also championed sustainability initiatives, such as the introduction of recycled aluminum and 3D-printed titanium in Apple Watch Ultra 3. With a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, Ternus previously worked as a mechanical engineer at Virtual Research Systems before his long tenure at Apple. Acknowledging the significance of his new role, Ternus expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity to advance Apple's mission, emphasizing the influence of his mentors, including Steve Jobs and Tim Cook. In conjunction with this leadership change, Arthur Levinson, who has served as Apple's non-executive chairman for the past 15 years, will step into the role of lead independent director, also effective September 1, 2026. Ternus is set to join the board of directors on the same date, marking a new chapter for Apple under his leadership.