Tim Cook to step down as Apple CEO this fall, naming John Ternus as successor

Tim Cook, Apple's longtime CEO, is preparing to step down this fall, handing the reins to John Ternus while passing on pivotal advice that echoes the guidance he once received from Steve Jobs. During an earnings call on Thursday, Cook revealed he told Ternus to "be yourself" and focus on managing time wisely, emphasizing where to spend it most effectively. This mentorship moment underscores a deliberate leadership transition at one of the world's most valuable companies, ensuring continuity amid high expectations from investors and users.

The advice carries deep historical weight at Apple. Steve Jobs, who handpicked Cook as his successor before his death in 2011, similarly counseled Cook on authenticity and priorities during his own challenging handover. Now, Cook is paying it forward to Ternus, Apple's hardware engineering chief, who has been groomed for the role through years of quiet leadership on products like the Mac and iPad. As reported by Cult of Mac and 9to5Mac, Cook stressed following Apple's "North Star"—a commitment to innovation and user experience that has defined the company for decades.

This transition comes at a pivotal time for Apple, as Ternus steps into a role demanding navigation of global supply chains, regulatory pressures, and technological leaps like artificial intelligence integration. Cook's outgoing tenure has already showcased his strategic acumen, including a bold move announced on the same earnings call: Apple plans to apply for refunds on tariffs paid during the Trump administration and reinvest those funds back into the U.S. Business Insider dubbed this the latest example of Cook's reputation as the "Trump whisperer", highlighting his knack for pragmatic deal-making that shields Apple's operations and bolsters domestic investment.

The shift affects millions of iPhone, Mac, and Apple device users worldwide, who rely on steady leadership to maintain the ecosystem's reliability and cutting-edge appeal. Employees and shareholders, too, stand to feel the impact, with Ternus tasked early on to manage change for the better, as noted by Six Colors. Cook has promised to remain available as an advisor, providing a safety net during the handover.

Looking ahead, Ternus's first challenges will likely include sustaining Apple's growth amid economic uncertainties and competition from rivals like Samsung and Google. His engineering background positions him well to prioritize product excellence, but he'll need to embody Cook's interpersonal savvy in dealings with governments and partners. This smooth succession plan contrasts sharply with the abrupt one Jobs left behind, signaling Apple's maturation into a more stable powerhouse. For now, the focus remains on execution, with users poised to judge the results through the quality of future devices.