Apple’s incoming chief executive, John Ternus, has told employees the company is “about to change the world once again”, using his first all-hands meeting after the leadership transition announcement to signal confidence in Apple’s future.
The comment came a day after Apple announced that Tim Cook would step down as chief executive and move into the role of executive chairman, with Ternus set to take over on September 1, 2026.
Ternus reportedly told staff he was especially excited to be stepping into the role at this moment because of what lies ahead for the company. He also pointed to Apple’s product roadmap and described the current period as one of the most exciting in his career.
The remarks appear aimed at reassuring employees, investors and customers that the leadership change will not slow Apple’s momentum. Instead, the company is presenting the transition as part of a broader push into its next generation of products and services.
Ternus, a longtime Apple executive, has played a central role in the development of several of the company’s flagship devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and AirPods. His elevation places one of Apple’s most prominent hardware leaders at the top of the company at a time when competition in artificial intelligence and advanced consumer technology is intensifying.
His message to staff suggests Apple wants to frame the new era around innovation, continuity and growth. With Cook remaining at the company as chairman, Apple is seeking to balance leadership renewal with operational stability as it enters a critical phase in its product and AI strategy.
