Apple’s next CEO John Ternus wants to make design matter again: All details

In a significant leadership shift, John Ternus will officially take the helm as CEO of Apple on September 1, 2026. As he prepares for this role, Ternus is expected to initiate a revival of Apple’s design ethos, which many believe has waned since the departure of influential design chief Jony Ive in 2019. Ive, whose creative vision was pivotal in shaping iconic products like the iPhone and iPad, emphasized design as a core priority. However, since his exit, Apple has reportedly shifted its focus towards operational efficiency and supply chain management, often sidelining design leadership. The company currently lacks a senior design figure to match Ive's legacy. Ternus, who has been closely collaborating with Apple’s product design team in anticipation of his new role, aims to restore the design team’s prominence within the organization. In comments captured by Bloomberg, he asserted that design remains integral to Apple’s identity, stating, "The most beautifully designed thing that most customers own is an Apple product. We're going to make sure that stays the case." As he steps into his position, Ternus is also linked to key developments, including the upcoming MacBook Neo and Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is slated for release later this year. Looking ahead, Apple’s product roadmap for 2026 and 2027 appears promising, with a lineup that may feature new iterations of iPhones, AirPods, AI glasses, iPads, and Macs. Additionally, as Apple gears up for the 20th anniversary of the iPhone next year, the company is expected to roll out significant product launches, marking a celebratory milestone in its history.