Tim Cook tells employees why he chose to step down now, what’s next for him

Chance Miller 2026-04-21 14:02:00 9to5mac.com Apple’s Tim Cook and John Ternus held an all-hands meeting with employees today in Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park, according to Bloomberg. The meeting comes one day after the announcement that Ternus will take over as Apple CEO later this year. During the meeting, Cook offered more insight into why he decided to begin the transition now — and what his plans are for his role as Apple’s executive chairman. First, Cook, 65, shot down rumors that he’s facing health problems. Bloomberg had previously reported that some Apple employees had noticed Cook had an “unexplained tremor that causes his hands to shake from time to time.” “I’m excited to continue my journey at Apple as executive chairman,” Cook said during today’s meeting. “I am healthy. My energy is high, and I plan to be in this new role [executive chairman] for a long time.” When asked why he decided to step down now, Cook said he wanted to allow for the “best-ever transition” to occur, which meant three things needed to be true: - Apple’s product roadmap needed to “be incredible.” - Apple’s financials needed to be “doing great.” - Ternus had to be “ready for the role.” Cook said he will be available to support Ternus whenever needed, including helping with policy relations around the world. “I’ll probably help on some other things,” he added. “I’ll be here to support John in any way he needs and in any way I can,” Cook said during the meeting. “I’ll be here to offer my knowledge and experience and be a sounding board anytime I’m called upon. Apple will be my top priority. It’s who I am at my core, and I can’t imagine it any other way.” As announced yesterday, John Ternus will officially become CEO on September 1, 2026. My favorite iPhone accessories: Follow Chance: Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, and Mastodon. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More. Apple AirTag 4 Pack – Keep Track of Your Essentials For Apple ecosystem users, the Apple AirTag 4 Pack remains one of the most practical accessories available. Seamlessly integrated with the Find My network, AirTags help you track keys, bags, luggage, and more directly from your iPhone. With 41,487 global ratings, a 4.8 out of 5 star rating, and the Amazon Choice badge, this accessory has quickly become a customer favorite. Users love its ease of setup, precision finding, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Never worry about losing your valuables again, the Apple AirTags make it simple to locate your items wherever they are. View current pricing for the Apple AirTag 4 Pack on Amazon. Support Techcratic Independent. Uninfluenced. Performance-focused. Whether it’s 30-Second Tech, App Zone, Retro Rewind, Tech’s Got to Eat, or deep Techcratic analysis, every piece is built for readers who want clarity over noise. If you value that, you can support Techcratic below. Thank you. Bitcoin Support Scan the QR code with your crypto wallet app or copy and paste the below address: bc1qlszw7elx2qahjwvaryh0tkgg8y68enw30gpvge Please read the Privacy and Security Disclaimer. Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Techcratic may earn from qualifying purchases.