Tim Cook Bids Farewell as Apple CEO After 15 Years

Tim Cook has marked his final day as Apple CEO with an emotional message to the company’s global community, bringing an end to his 15-year tenure at the helm of the technology giant.

In a post shared on social media, Cook thanked Apple employees, customers and supporters for their role throughout his leadership journey.

“Sending lots of love to the Apple community on my last day as CEO. My title changes tomorrow, but the love I have for the Apple community never will,” Cook wrote.

He added:

“Thank you for being a constant source of inspiration. My gratitude is endless, and I’m excited for the next chapter!”

Cook’s transition marks the end of one of the longest and most consequential leadership eras in Apple’s history. He will remain with the company as executive chairman of Apple’s board of directors, while John Ternus, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, officially becomes CEO on September 1, 2026. 

Cook became Apple’s CEO in August 2011, succeeding co-founder Steve Jobs.

During his tenure, Apple expanded its hardware ecosystem and significantly strengthened its services business. The company launched products including the Apple Watch, AirPods and Vision Pro, while also expanding services such as Apple Music, Apple TV+ and iCloud. 

Apple also completed one of its most significant technological transitions under Cook’s leadership, moving the Mac lineup away from Intel processors and towards its own Apple Silicon chips.

The company grew into one of the world’s most valuable businesses during his time as CEO, although his final years also brought increasing pressure on Apple to compete more aggressively in artificial intelligence.

Cook’s successor, John Ternus, has led Apple’s hardware engineering organisation since 2021 and has played a major role in the development of many of the company’s products.

Apple announced the leadership transition earlier this year, describing it as the result of a long-term succession planning process unanimously approved by its board. 

Ternus now takes charge at a crucial moment for Apple as the company faces increasing competition in artificial intelligence and prepares for its next generation of products.

While Cook’s title is changing, his message makes clear that his relationship with Apple is far from over.

After 15 years as CEO, the man who succeeded Steve Jobs is stepping into a new chapter — while Apple prepares to begin one of its own.