Tim Cook stepped down as Apple CEO on September 1 to hand the iPhone Duo launch to John Ternus

Tim Cook stepped down as Apple CEO on September 1, 2026 — eight days before John Ternus unveiled the iPhone Duo. He confirmed the timing was deliberate: to give Ternus immediate momentum at the start of a major product cycle. Cook told The Independent’s David Phelan the transition “started years ago” and was designed as “a textbook example that people could look back to and learn from.” He called it “exactly the way I had envisioned it.” Ternus, formerly Apple’s hardware engineering chief, is now CEO.

Cook is executive chairman. He said he advised Ternus the same way Jobs once advised him: “Make it your own job. Don’t mimic me. Just like I didn’t mimic Steve.” Cook added that Ternus should focus on where he adds the most value, not on replicating Cook’s leadership style or priorities.

The iPhone Duo launch is set for October 13. Cook described the device as “amazing” and said “this product cycle feels unbelievably great.” He did not disclose specs, pricing, or availability beyond that date. Apple has not announced U.S. Or Indian prices for the iPhone Duo. No regional launch details were given in the interview.