Tim Cook to Step Down as Apple CEO on September 1, 2026

Tim Cook is set to step down as Apple's chief executive on September 1, 2026, ending a 15-year tenure that began on August 24, 2011. To mark the occasion, Apple hosted a private celebration at its Apple Park headquarters in Cupertino on August 23, 2026, attended by approximately 200 people. The event featured a performance by the band OneRepublic and included speeches from several prominent figures, including Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, former Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams, services chief Eddy Cue, and incoming CEO John Ternus.

The gathering served as both a farewell and an anniversary, as Cook's 15-year anniversary as CEO coincided with the date of his predecessor's resignation. Cook, who has expressed a desire for his legacy to be defined by others, has largely avoided public commentary on his time leading the company, stating only that he hopes to be remembered as a good and decent man. His transition to the role of Executive Chairman will see him remain engaged with the company, particularly in a liaison capacity with policymakers, while Ternus assumes responsibility for day-to-day operations and product strategy.