Apple is actively preparing for a significant leadership transition as long-serving Chief Executive Tim Cook is expected to step down from his role, according to a major new report.
Imminent Leadership Change
The Financial Times has revealed that the technology giant is intensifying its succession planning, with a change at the top potentially occurring within the coming months. The board of the $4 trillion company is likely to wait until after its next earnings report in January before making any official announcement.
This strategic timing would allow a new executive team to settle in ahead of Apple's key annual events, including its major software showcase in June and the critical new iPhone launch in September.
The Cook Legacy and Potential Successor
Tim Cook, who recently turned 65, has led Apple for 14 years, a tenure roughly matching that of his legendary predecessor, Steve Jobs. Under his stewardship, Apple's value has increased approximately tenfold.
The most probable candidate to assume the leadership mantle is John Ternus, Apple's current head of hardware engineering. At 50 years old, he is younger than many other senior executives and has recently taken a more prominent role in product launches, including introducing new iPhones.
Cook has historically been evasive about his retirement plans. In a 2023 interview with Dua Lipa, he stated, "I don't know how long I'll be [at Apple]. I love it there, and I can't envision my life without being there. So, I'll be there a while."
Shifting Succession Landscape
The succession picture has shifted notably in recent months. For a long time, Jeff Williams, Apple's Chief Operating Officer, was viewed as the natural heir. His career path and responsibilities closely mirrored those held by Cook before he became CEO.
However, Apple announced Williams's retirement in July, and his profile was recently removed from the company's executive leadership page. Cook praised Williams's contributions and the "amazing team he's created."
Some industry commentators suggest the leak of the succession planning might be a deliberate move by Apple to gauge market sentiment regarding a post-Cook era, noting that such sensitive information would likely only be shared with media "with Cook's blessing."
