Tim Cook Not Leaving Apple Soon: Report Dismisses 2026 Exit Rumors

A new report has dismissed speculation that Apple CEO Tim Cook is preparing to step down in 2026. While Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering John Ternus remains a strong contender for the role in the future, Cook is expected to continue steering Apple for several more years.

New Delhi:
Recent rumours suggested that Tim Cook would step away from his role as Apple CEO next year, sparking debates about potential successors and the company’s future leadership. Some reports even claimed Apple had already identified a replacement.

However, a new Bloomberg report firmly rejects these claims, stating that Cook has no plans to leave his position at the world’s most valuable technology company anytime soon.

Cook, who turned 65 this month, has served as CEO since 2011, taking over after the passing of Steve Jobs. During his tenure, he has expanded Apple’s global presence, introduced new product lines and services, and cemented the company’s status as a trillion-dollar leader in the tech industry.

Rumours of a 2026 Exit Are Unfounded

Earlier this month, the Financial Times reported that John Ternus—Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering—could step into the CEO role as early as mid-2026. The report fueled intense discussion across the tech world, prompting suggestions that a major leadership shift might be underway at Apple.

Bloomberg, however, has now clarified that there is no indication Cook is preparing for an imminent retirement. Within Apple, the rumours are viewed as speculative and inaccurate. According to the publication, a sudden leadership transition would come as a “shock.”

John Ternus Still Seen as a Strong Future Successor

While a 2026 handover appears unlikely, industry watchers still regard John Ternus as a leading candidate to eventually succeed Cook. As the youngest member of Apple’s executive team, Ternus has overseen the development of several key hardware products, including recent generations of the iPhone, iPad, and AirPods.

Known for his technical expertise and respected leadership, Ternus remains a strong long-term contender—just not in the immediate future, according to the latest report.

Cook Expected to Stay Involved Even After Stepping Down

Even when Cook eventually retires as CEO, he is expected to continue contributing to the company, likely as chairman. After more than a decade of stable leadership and consistent growth, Cook remains central to Apple’s long-term strategy.

For now, the message is clear: Tim Cook isn’t going anywhere, and no major leadership changes are expected in the near future—unless something unforeseen occurs.