It’s official. John Ternus is set to replace Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO.
The tech giant said on April 20 that Ternus is set to take over as chief executive starting September 1, 2026, after serving as senior vice president of hardware engineering. Cook plans to remain at Apple as executive chairman.
“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 a press release.
Ternus had emerged as a likely frontrunner for the top job, according to reports from the last year and a half. Bloomberg previously identified him as “the most likely heir apparent.”
Cook previously said in a 2023 interview that his ideal candidate for the role would come from within the company and that he prepared “several” people to potentially take over.
“I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward,” Ternus said in a press release.
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.
Here’s what to know about the executive who could one day replace Cook at the helm.
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’s worked under Steve Jobs and described Cook as a mentor in his statement after being 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 has been marked with a number of 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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