In a poignant message addressed to the Apple community, CEO Tim Cook has announced his decision to step down from his role in September 2026, transitioning to the position of executive chairman. Cook, who has led Apple for the past 15 years, took this opportunity to express his heartfelt gratitude to Apple fans worldwide for their unwavering support during his tenure.
In his letter, Cook stated, “This is not goodbye. But at this moment of transition, I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you.” This marks a significant change at Apple, with John Ternus, the company’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, set to take over as CEO. Johny Srouji will succeed Ternus as chief hardware officer, further solidifying the leadership transition within the tech giant.
Cook reflected on his time at Apple, sharing how he has started nearly every day by reading emails from users around the globe. He recounted personal stories shared with him by Apple fans, such as heartfelt messages about life-changing experiences facilitated by Apple products. He remarked on the sense of shared humanity he feels through these communications, stating, “In every one of those emails, I feel the beating heart of our shared humanity. I feel a sense of deepening obligation to work harder and push further.”
The outgoing CEO expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity he has had to lead a company that ignites imaginations and enriches lives. “What an honor and a privilege it has been,” he wrote, underscoring the meaningful impact Apple has had on countless lives.
In the letter, Cook announced, “Today we announced that I’m taking the next step in my journey at Apple,” detailing his plans for a gradual transition over the coming months. He praised Ternus, describing him as “a brilliant engineer and thinker” who has dedicated 25 years to building the beloved Apple products. Cook emphasized Ternus’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence, asserting that he is “the perfect person for the job.”
Furthermore, Cook highlighted Ternus’s understanding of Apple’s core values and his integrity as a leader, saying, “John cares so much about who we are at Apple, what we do at Apple, who we reach at Apple, and he has the heart and character to lead with extraordinary integrity.” Cook expressed confidence that under Ternus’s leadership, Apple will continue to achieve incredible heights, stating, “You will feel his impact in every bit of delight and discovery that grows out of the products and services to come.”
Ending his letter on a personal note, Cook reiterated, “This is not goodbye,” and took the moment to express personal thanks, stating, “Thank you for the confidence and kindness you’ve shown me.” He reflected on his journey from a rural upbringing to leading one of the greatest companies in the world, acknowledging the unique experiences he has shared with Apple users. “Every day we get up and think about what we can do to make your life a little bit better. And every day, you’ve made mine the best I could have asked for,” he concluded.
As Tim Cook prepares to step away from the CEO role, the Apple community looks forward to this new chapter under John Ternus, with optimism for the innovations and advancements that lie ahead.
Source: The Verge News