“This is not goodbye”: Tim Cook as he steps down as Apple CEO

In a significant shift for Apple, Tim Cook has announced his departure as Chief Executive Officer after an impressive tenure of nearly 15 years. Cook's leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the technology landscape since the era following Steve Jobs. As he steps aside, John Ternus, the current senior vice president of hardware engineering, is set to take the helm on September 1, 2026. Though departing from the CEO role, Cook will continue to serve as executive chairman, ensuring his presence within the company remains strong. In a heartfelt message shared on Hello Apple’s Instagram, Cook expressed his gratitude to the community, stating, "This is not goodbye. At this moment of transition, I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you. Not on behalf of the company, but simply on behalf of me. Tim." Reflecting on his journey, Cook mentioned his humble beginnings and the honor of leading such a renowned company. He announced Ternus as the ideal successor, noting his dedication and experience over the past 25 years in creating beloved Apple products. "He is the perfect person for the job," Cook affirmed, expressing confidence that Ternus would guide the company to new heights. As Cook transitions out of his CEO role, he took a moment to appreciate the unwavering support from the Apple community, emphasizing the strong relationship built with customers over the years. "Thank you for believing in me to lead the company that has always prioritized you. Every day we strive to improve your lives, and in doing so, you've made mine extraordinary," he remarked. In addition to the CEO transition, Apple has also appointed Johny Srouji as the new Chief Hardware Officer, succeeding Ternus, marking a new chapter for the tech giant.