Apple Inc. on Monday named longtime executive John Ternus as its next chief executive officer, signaling a strategic shift toward hardware innovation and artificial intelligence as he succeeds Tim Cook.
Ternus, 50, joined Apple in 2001 and has played a key behind-the-scenes role in developing flagship products, including Macs, iPads and AirPods. As head of hardware engineering, he helped revive Mac sales and introduced premium “Pro” models alongside more affordable devices, sharpening Apple’s product lineup.
His appointment comes as Apple faces intensifying competition in AI and semiconductor technologies, particularly from Nvidia, which recently overtook the iPhone maker in market value, and rivals such as Meta Platforms in emerging categories like augmented reality.
Ternus will be tasked with integrating AI more deeply into Apple’s ecosystem, especially the iPhone, widely regarded as the most successful consumer product ever. Earlier this year, Apple partnered with Google to incorporate its Gemini AI model into Siri, highlighting the company’s efforts to strengthen its AI capabilities.
Industry analysts say Ternus is expected to push new hardware categories, including foldable devices, smart glasses and AI-powered wearables, as Apple seeks to regain momentum in next-generation technologies.
Cook, who has led Apple since 2011, will transition to the role of executive chairman. Under his leadership, the company’s stock surged roughly twenty-fold, and Apple expanded into a global powerhouse known for its vast supply chain and consistent product output.
In a related move, Apple appointed Johny Srouji as chief hardware officer, while senior executive Tom Merieb will take over the hardware engineering group previously led by Ternus.
The leadership transition marks a shift from Cook’s operational and supply chain expertise to a product-focused approach under Ternus, as Apple navigates a rapidly evolving technology landscape shaped by artificial intelligence.
