John Ternus is one of Apple’s least well-known top executives. Yet today, he appears to be the leading favorite to succeed Tim Cook at the helm of the Cupertino-based giant. According to Bloomberg, the head of hardware engineering, responsible for the design of the iPhone, Mac, and other products, saw his responsibilities expanded at the end of 2025. He now oversees all design, both hardware and software. It is a strategic role long held by Jony Ive, then by Jeff Williams, who for a time was presented as a future CEO before retiring last summer.
For several months, rumors have been circulating about a possible departure of Tim Cook, who has led Apple since 2011, as early as this year. Tired, the executive is said to be considering stepping back, according to several U.S. media outlets. He would reportedly keep only the position of chairman of the board, giving up day-to-day management. While Apple is already preparing his succession — very likely internally— a handover in the short ter…
