Tim Cook bids emotional goodbye as Apple CEO after 15 years

On his final day as CEO, Cook shared an emotional message with the Apple community, thanking employees, customers and supporters for their continued inspiration and looking ahead to his next chapter at the company.

“Sending lots of love to the Apple community on my last day as CEO. My title changes tomorrow, but the love I have for the Apple community never will,” Cook wrote in a post on X.

“Thank you for being a constant source of inspiration. My gratitude is endless, and I'm excited for the next chapter!”

The post drew an outpouring of messages from users and members of the Apple community thanking Cook for his years of leadership.

John Ternus to become Apple's new CEO

John Ternus will take over as Apple's CEO on September 1, 2026, marking the company's biggest leadership transition since Cook succeeded Steve Jobs in 2011.

Cook, however, will not be leaving Apple altogether. He will assume the position of executive chairman, allowing him to remain involved with the company in a senior leadership role.

Cook took over after Steve Jobs

Cook became Apple's CEO in August 2011, following Jobs' second departure from the company amid his deteriorating health.

At the time, Cook faced enormous expectations and questions over whether he could maintain Apple's extraordinary momentum under a leader known primarily for his operational and supply-chain expertise rather than the product-focused vision associated with Jobs.

Nearly 15 years later, Apple's financial growth under Cook has been striking.

Apple's market value soars under Cook

Apple's market capitalisation has risen from roughly $350 billion in 2011 to around $4 trillion, while its stock price has increased nearly 25-fold during his tenure.

Apple shares, which traded at approximately $13 when Cook became CEO, have climbed 2,359.2 per cent to $319.70 at the latest close.

The company's annual revenue has also grown from around $108 billion in 2011 to more than $400 billion.

The expansion has been driven by continued iPhone demand, a rapidly growing services business and Apple's increasing global reach.

From iPhones to a services powerhouse

One of Cook's most significant achievements has been expanding Apple's business beyond its traditional hardware focus.

Services including the App Store, Apple Music and Apple Pay have emerged as increasingly important sources of growth for the company.

Under Cook, Apple has also launched new products and expanded into new business areas, while maintaining its position as one of the world's most valuable companies.

As Cook moves into his new role, his departure as CEO marks the end of an era that began with the enormous challenge of succeeding Steve Jobs and evolved into one of the most financially successful periods in Apple's history.