Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple CEO, John Ternus Takes Charge
Tim Cook is stepping down as the CEO of Apple Inc. after nearly 15 years at the forefront of the tech giant. Cook will now serve as the executive chairman, while longtime hardware head John Ternus will take over leadership. This change marks a significant moment for a company that was greatly influenced by its co-founder, Steve Jobs.
When Cook took the reins in 2011, Apple was already a major player in the tech world. However, his time as CEO has been marked by remarkable financial and operational success. Under his leadership, Apple’s market value skyrocketed from less than $350 billion to over $4 trillion, making it one of the most valuable companies ever.
Financially, Apple flourished under Cook. By the end of fiscal 2025, the company’s annual net income had reached $112 billion, a stunning 699% increase since 2010. This growth occurred despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues, and geopolitical tensions affecting key manufacturing areas.
Cook focused on expanding Apple’s ecosystem. Building on the popularity of the iPhone and the App Store, he led the launch of products like the Apple Watch and various iPad models, while also enhancing services and accessories. Cook once stated, “We never set out to make the most, but we’ve always aimed to make the best products that make a difference.”
Today, Apple’s ecosystem includes over 2.5 billion active devices around the globe, a testament to how deeply embedded the company is in people’s daily lives. While exploring new technologies like mixed reality, Apple continued to strengthen its established products.
Retail expansion played a crucial role during Cook’s tenure. The number of Apple stores worldwide grew to 540, with around 200 new locations opening up, particularly in China. This has allowed Apple to maintain a strong retail presence, while many U.S. tech companies faced challenges in accessing that market.
During Cook’s leadership, the pricing strategy for Apple products changed significantly. The average price of an iPhone climbed from $712 in 2011 to $1,070 by 2025, marking a shift towards higher-end devices. This strategy helped Apple stay profitable, even with increasing competition from budget-friendly brands.
Sustainability has also been a priority for Cook. Apple successfully reduced its plastic use, avoiding 15,000 metric tons over five years by redesigning packaging. The company has been increasing its use of recycled materials, working towards its goal of hitting carbon neutrality by 2030.
In 2017, Cook oversaw the completion of Apple Park, a sprawling 175-acre headquarters in Cupertino that reflects the company’s commitment to design and future ambitions. This campus houses over 12,000 employees and is powered by renewable energy.
A key highlight of Cook’s later years was a significant $600 billion investment plan aimed at creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and promoting new technologies in the United States. As Apple moves forward under Ternus, the strong foundation built during Cook’s leadership will undoubtedly shape the company’s path ahead.
