Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple CEO After 15 Years, John Ternus Takes Over

Cupertino: Tim Cook has stepped down as Apple’s chief executive after 15 years leading the technology giant, marking the end of one of the longest CEO tenures in the company's history.

Cook, who took over from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs in August 2011, will continue with the company as executive chairman. John Ternus, a longtime Apple executive, succeeds him as CEO.

In a farewell memo to Apple employees, Cook reflected on his time leading the company and said leaving the CEO role was an emotional moment despite being a decision he had long expected to make.

Cook said he would miss the work he had “loved deeply” but remained confident about the company’s future under Ternus.

He described Ternus as “brilliant and wonderful and capable” and said he took enormous comfort in handing over Apple’s leadership to him.

Tim Cook’s 15-Year Apple Legacy

Cook became Apple CEO in August 2011, succeeding Steve Jobs at a crucial moment in the company's history. Under his leadership, Apple expanded beyond its traditional focus on the iPhone, Mac and iPad.

The company introduced several major products during Cook’s tenure, including the Apple Watch and AirPods, while continuing to develop its flagship iPhone, iPad and Mac product families.

Apple also experienced significant growth during Cook’s leadership, becoming one of the world's most valuable technology companies.

However, in his farewell message, Cook placed greater emphasis on Apple’s culture and employees than on financial achievements.

He said the most important aspects of his tenure could not be captured by an annual report, highlighting the company's shared values, culture and sense of purpose.

Cook Will Remain With Apple

Although Cook is leaving the CEO position, he is not leaving Apple.

As executive chairman, he will continue to have a role at the company and said he looks forward to seeing employees at Apple Park and around the world.

His transition marks a major leadership change for Apple, with Ternus now taking responsibility for guiding the company into its next chapter.

Tim Cook’s Farewell Message

In his memo to employees, Cook reflected on the significance of his final day as CEO and expressed gratitude to Apple employees for their support and dedication.

He described leading Apple as a privilege and thanked employees for the affection they had shown him during his tenure.

Cook acknowledged that he had always known the day would eventually arrive but said it remained difficult to believe that the moment had come.

He also emphasized his continued connection to Apple, making clear that his departure from the CEO role does not mean the end of his relationship with the company.

John Ternus now takes over as Apple CEO, while Tim Cook begins his next chapter as executive chairman.