CUPERTINO, CA – September 1, 2026 – John Ternus has officially stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer at Apple, succeeding long-time leader Tim Cook. This appointment places an executive with a deep and extensive background in the company's product and engineering teams at the helm of one of the world's most influential technology companies. Ternus's nearly quarter-century journey within Apple has consistently centered on the development and refinement of its iconic hardware.
A Career Forged in Product Design
Ternus began his career at Apple in 2001, joining the Product Design group. His early contributions included work on products such as the Apple Cinema Display, laying the groundwork for his future leadership in hardware. His dedication and expertise saw him steadily advance through various senior roles within the hardware division.
Ascension Through Hardware Leadership
In 2013, Ternus was promoted to Vice President of Hardware Engineering, a pivotal role under Dan Riccio. In this capacity, he oversaw the hardware development for key product lines, including the Mac, iPad, and AirPods. His responsibilities expanded significantly in 2020 when he took charge of iPhone hardware engineering, a testament to his proven capabilities.
By 2021, Ternus was elevated to Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, directly succeeding Riccio. He further broadened his portfolio in late 2022, adding the Apple Watch hardware to his oversight. Throughout his tenure, Ternus became a familiar and authoritative presence at Apple's major events and WWDC presentations, often introducing new generations of products like the iPad Pro, iMac Pro, MacBook Pro, and redesigned Mac Pro models.
Beyond Launches: Focus on Reliability and Innovation
Ternus's influence at Apple extends far beyond simply launching new products. His hardware organization has been credited with driving significant advancements in product reliability, durability, and repairability. Under his guidance, Apple has explored and implemented innovations in materials, including the use of recycled aluminum and 3D-printed titanium in devices like the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Furthermore, his teams have been instrumental in enhancing the user experience for products such as AirPods, leading advancements in active noise cancellation and integrating new hearing-health features. As Apple embarks on this new leadership chapter, Ternus brings a wealth of internal experience and a profound understanding of the company's hardware ecosystem to its top executive position.