Tim Cook to Step Down as Apple CEO in 2026? Here’s Who Might Replace Him

Apple CEO Tim Cook may step down from his role next year, according to a new report. Cook, who turned 65 this year, has been leading Apple since 2011, when he took over after the death of co-founder Steve Jobs. His departure would mark the end of a 14-year run that saw Apple become one of the most valuable companies in the world. Also Read: No Ring Light? Mac Users Can Now Brighten Video Calls With Apple’s New Edge Light Feature

Tim Cook’s Planned Exit

As per a report by the Financial Times, Cook’s decision to step down is part of a long-term plan and not related to Apple’s performance. Sources familiar with the matter said that the company has started preparing for a leadership transition and is currently assessing potential successors. Also Read: iOS 26.2 Beta 2 Out Now: Here’s Everything New For iPhone Users

Apple is reportedly not expected to announce a new CEO before its next earnings call in late January. The timeline is believed to give the incoming leadership team enough time to adjust before Apple’s major events begin mid-year, starting with the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. Also Read: Apple M5 Mac mini And Mac Studio Tipped To Launch By Mid-2026, Gurman Reports

John Ternus Seen as Leading Successor

Cook is said to prefer an internal successor rather than hiring from outside the company. Inside the company, John Ternus – Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering – is being talked about as the top contender to replace Cook. Ternus currently heads Apple’s hardware division and has played a key role in the development of the company’s recent product lineup.

Cook’s Legacy at Apple

During Cook’s time as CEO, Apple’s market value has jumped from around $350 billion in 2011 to nearly $4 trillion today. He oversaw the launch of new product categories like the Apple Watch and AirPods, and pushed the company’s shift toward services, which now form a major part of Apple’s overall business.

Apple’s stock continues to trade near record highs following strong results last month. While the company still trails behind rivals like Microsoft and NVIDIA in AI-related growth, it expects a record quarter for sales during the upcoming holiday season.

Analysts say Apple is projecting total revenue growth between 10 to 12 percent year-on-year, up from the six percent growth earlier estimated by Wall Street.