Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is reportedly ramping up preparations for a leadership transition, with the board and senior executives intensifying discussions around identifying Tim Cook’s successor.
Apple Steps Up CEO Succession Talks
Cook, who took over from Steve Jobs in 2011, could hand over the role as soon as next year, the Financial Times reported, citing people familiar with the discussion.
While no formal decision has been announced, insiders told the publication that the planning has become more active and deliberate.
Apple did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
John Ternus Seen As The Leading Contender
According to the report, senior vice president of hardware engineering John Ternus is widely viewed inside Apple as the most likely successor.
Ternus, a longtime engineering leader who oversees flagship products including the iPhone and Mac, is said to have gained strong support across Apple’s leadership ranks.
Sources told the publication that Cupertino is unlikely to reveal a new CEO before its late-January earnings report, which covers the crucial holiday quarter.
Apple did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comments.
See Also: iPhone Pocket For $230? Marques Brownlee Says It’s A ‘Litmus Test For People Who’ll Buy/Defend Anything’ From Apple
Cook Would Leave On A High Note As Apple Extends Earnings Streak
The succession discussions come as Apple continues to outperform Wall Street expectations.
In October, the company posted $102.47 billion in fiscal fourth-quarter revenue, topping analyst forecasts and reported earnings of $1.85 per share, beating estimates for the 11th straight quarter.
Revenue rose 8% year over year, with double-digit earnings growth driven by strong performance in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
If Cook steps down in 2025, he would conclude a transformative 14-year tenure marked by Apple’s expansion into services, wearables, and custom silicon.
Benzinga’s Edge Stock Rankings place AAPL in the 95th percentile for Growth and 84th for Quality, underscoring the company’s strong performance compared with industry peers.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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