Tim Cook in the spotlight: Resignation rumors and Apple's plans

For some time now, there has been increasing discussion about when Tim Cook might step down as Apple CEO. Different media reports cite varying timeframes. While some assume a departure is imminent, others consider a resignation in the near future rather unlikely. One thing is clear, however: Tim Cook's successor is a topic that Apple is apparently already addressing internally.

The latest debate was triggered by a Financial Times report stating that Apple was preparing for the possibility that Tim Cook might step down as CEO as early as 2026. This assessment attracted attention because it suggests a relatively early timeframe.

However, Mark Gurman, considered one of the best-informed Apple observers, disagrees. In his recent "Power On" newsletter on Bloomberg, he describes this timeframe as "unlikely." According to Gurman, a retirement at the beginning of 2026 is not to be expected.

How much longer will Tim Cook remain CEO?

Mark Gurman has previously stated that he would be surprised if Tim Cook were to step down before mid-2026. In his estimation, Cook could remain in office at least until the WWDC developers conference in June. A departure in the near future, therefore, does not appear to be planned.

Tim Cook has been CEO of Apple since August 2011. Last year, he reached the standard retirement age of 65. This fact alone has intensified speculation about a possible resignation. At the same time, there are strong indications that Apple is not seeking a quick change at the top, but rather preparing for the transition over the long term.

Will Tim Cook become chairman of Apple's board?

Besides the timing of his resignation, there is also speculation about a possible new role for Tim Cook. It has been repeatedly suggested that he could take over as chairman of Apple's board of directors after stepping down as CEO.

However, it currently appears unlikely that this change will take place anytime soon. The current CEO, Arthur D. Levinson, is standing for re-election at the annual general meeting on February 24th.

While Apple has an internal policy that directors generally should not seek re-election after reaching the age of 75, the company is explicitly asking its shareholders to approve an exception for Levinson. This is justified, among other things, by his extensive experience and comprehensive expertise. This suggests that a change at the head of the supervisory board is not planned in the near future.

Who is considered Tim Cook's successor?

John Ternus is currently considered the most likely successor to Tim Cook. He is Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering at Apple and thus responsible for a key area of the company.

According to Mark Gurman, Tim Cook handed over control of Apple's design teams to John Ternus at the end of last year. This move is seen as a clear signal. Gurman says this decision makes it "crystal clear" that Ternus is currently the leading candidate for the CEO position. At Apple, the gradual transfer of key responsibilities is traditionally considered preparation for a leadership change.

Apple continues to prioritize stability under Tim Cook

Even though there are increasing signs that Tim Cook's time as Apple CEO is coming to an end, the available information does not indicate an imminent resignation. Mark Gurman's assessment suggests that the change at the top of the company is still at least several months away.

Tim Cook will remain a key figure at Apple for the time being. His departure appears to be carefully planned and will apparently be handled without hasty decisions. For Apple, this primarily means continuity, while behind the scenes, preparations are already underway for the next generation of company leadership. (Image: Shutterstock / Ringo Chiu)