It’s official. John Ternus has been replaced Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.
Ternus, a career product man, takes the helm after Cook, an operations man, led the company for just over 15 years. Cook’s famous 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 higher prices for MacBooks and iPads Amid an ongoing memory chip crisis, it is facing AI regulations in Europe and is on the verge of the latest – maybe foldable? version of his iPhone.
During the company’s earnings call in July, Cook called Ternus “unique” and said the transition would be “seamless.”
Cook, he has cozy with President Donald Trumpshall remains at Apple as executive chairman – a position that includes “working with policymakers around the world,” the tech company wrote.
“I couldn’t be more confident in his abilities and his character, and I look forward to working closely with him in this transition,” Cook said in an April press release announcing Ternus’ promotion.
Meanwhile, Apple fans and Wall Street have become more familiar with Ternus as he has made public appearances in connection with iPhone and other product events.
“It is incredible to step into the role of CEO and it means a lot to me to have Tim’s trust,” Ternus said during an earnings call in April.
His first public event as CEO is expected to be Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” hardware event on September 9, where the tech giant will unveil its new line of iPhones.
Here’s what you need to know about the director who took over.
He studied engineering
According to his LinkedIn profile, Ternus graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1997 with a degree in engineering. He studied mechanical engineering.
He then worked as an engineer for four years before joining Apple’s product design team in 2001, according to the company’s website.
Ternus became vice president of hardware engineering in 2013, taking over from Dan Riccio. He has worked on several 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 qualities, Ternus as CEO marks the return of a CEO to Apple with a product design background.
Ternus has extensive public speaking experience
John Ternus at Apple’s 2017 WWDC event. Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images
The task of Apple CEO is one of the most high-profile leadership roles in the world, requiring regular media appearances and keynote appearances.
Ternus has not shied away from the spotlight, as he has also presented new products and unveiled new versions of the iMac and MacBook in the past. Global Developer 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.
After the launch of the new iPhoneAirTernus and senior vice president of global 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 take on this role, and I promise to lead with the values and vision that have come to define this special place for half a century,” said Ternus.
