Overview
- The Financial Times reports that Apple has begun internal preparations for a possible leadership change next year, with the plan not yet finalized.
- Hardware chief John Ternus is regarded by Apple directors and senior executives as the leading candidate to succeed Tim Cook.
- An official announcement is viewed as unlikely before the company’s next quarterly report in January, with early 2026 cited as a possible window.
- Apple has not commented on the reported plans, and Cook has not publicly outlined departure timing.
- Sources say the potential transition is unrelated to current performance, as Apple posted strong September-quarter results and expects robust holiday demand.