- Tim Cook's final day as CEO of Apple was August 31, 2026, during which he shared emotional farewell messages on social media.
- Starting September 1, Tim Cook will serve as executive chairman of Apple's board of directors.
- John Ternus officially became CEO of Apple on September 1, 2026, as AAPL stock experienced a slight decline.
- Phil Schiller has stepped back from major roles, relinquishing oversight of the App Store and product events.
- Ternus's first major event as CEO is scheduled for September 9, where new iPhones, including a foldable model, are expected to be launched.
- Tim Cook served as CEO for 15 years, succeeding Steve Jobs in August 2011.
- Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran, replaces Cook and faces challenges in the AI sector.
- Apple's stock remains up about 36% over the past year despite a recent dip.
Tim Cook's departure marks a significant transition for Apple, as John Ternus steps in as CEO after 15 years of Cook's leadership. Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran, faces the challenge of enhancing the company's AI capabilities while maintaining its hardware dominance.478
Cook's emotional farewell included a message on social media: "Sending lots of love to the Apple community on my last day as CEO," expressing gratitude for the support he received during his tenure. Under Cook, Apple launched iconic products like the AirPods and Apple Watch, and he navigated complex geopolitical issues, including trade tensions with China.

As Ternus takes the helm, he inherits a company with a strong market presence but a pressing need to innovate in AI. “Tim Cook left the house in phenomenal order,” said Dan Ives, highlighting the solid foundation Ternus has to build upon. However, Ternus's immediate focus will be on selling iPhones, which saw a 21% revenue growth last quarter, contributing to a 37% stock gain over the past year.

Despite a slight dip in AAPL stock, which fell to $316.85 on Ternus's first day, the company remains up about 36% year-over-year. Ternus's first major test will come at the upcoming iPhone event on September 9, where a foldable iPhone is expected to be unveiled, marking a pivotal moment for his leadership.
Ternus's background in hardware engineering positions him well to drive innovation, but analysts caution that he must also address the company's AI shortcomings to keep pace with competitors.
“Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran, steps in with barely a week before the September 9 iPhone event, where a foldable handset is expected to debut. Analysts like Dan Ives say Cook left the house in 'phenomenal order,' but Ternus must define the AI chapter while managing geopolitical pressures.”








