It’s official. John Ternus has replaced Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO.
Ternus, a career product guy, is taking the helm after Cook, an operations guy, led the company for just over 15 years. Cook’s famed predecessor, Steve Jobs, was also a product guy.
The new CEO steps in as Apple faces pressure on the product and operational fronts. Apple has raised prices on MacBooks and iPads amid an ongoing memory chip crunch, is facing AI regulations in Europe, and is about to launch the latest — maybe foldable? — version of its iPhone.
During the company’s July earnings call, Cook called Ternus “one of a kind” and said the transition would go “seamlessly.”
Cook, who has cozied up to President Donald Trump, will remain at Apple as executive chairman — a position that includes “engaging with policymakers around the world,” the tech company wrote.
“I could not be more confident in his abilities and his character, and I look forward to working closely with him on this transition,” Cook said in an April press release announcing Ternus’s promotion.
Meanwhile, Apple fans and Wall Street have become more familiar with Ternus as he’s made public appearances tied to iPhone and other product events.
“Stepping into the role of CEO is incredible, and it means a great deal to me to have Tim’s trust and confidence,” Ternus said during an April earnings call.
His first public event as CEO is expected to be Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” hardware event on September 9, where the tech giant is unveiling its new slate of iPhones.
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Here’s what to know about the executive who has taken over.
He studied engineering
Ternus graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in engineering in 1997, according to his LinkedIn profile. He majored in mechanical engineering.
He then worked for four years as an engineer before joining Apple’s product design team in 2001, per the company’s website.
Ternus became vice president of hardware engineering in 2013, taking over from Dan Riccio. He’s worked on various Apple products, including every generation and model of iPad, as well as AirPods.
He worked under Steve Jobs and described Cook as a mentor in his statement after Cook was named the new CEO.
With his hardware chops, Ternus as CEO marks the return of a chief executive at Apple with a product design background.
Ternus has ample public speaking experience
The job of Apple CEO is one of the most high-profile executive positions in the world, requiring regular media and keynote appearances.
Ternus hasn’t shied away from the spotlight, as he has also presented new products and unveiled new versions of the iMac and MacBook at past Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) events.
At Apple’s “Let Loose” event in May 2024, Ternus unveiled new, thinner iPad Pro and iPad Air models. His 2025 was marked by several media appearances, including interviews about Apple’s plans for Apple Intelligence and new hardware.
Following the launch of the new iPhone Air, Ternus and senior vice president of worldwide marketing, Greg “Joz” Joswiak, gave an interview showcasing the durability of Apple’s thinnest phone.
Now, all eyes are on Ternus as he takes the helm of one of the largest companies in the world.
“I am humbled to step into this role, and I promise to lead with the values and vision that have come to define this special place for half a century,” Ternus said.
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