Apple massive leadership shift: Tim Cook to Exec Chair, John Ternus new CEO ahead of WWDC 2026 amid AI/hardware/supply chain pivots

Tim Cook stepping to Exec Chair in September 2026; John Ternus new CEO (25-year Apple vet, SVP Hardware Engineering, led MacBook Neo and iPhone 17). AI brain drain continues (Giannandrea/Siri/200+ engs + others to Google/Meta). Hardware chief Srouji executes product design reshuffles. Recent profile confirms hardware veteran focus amid AI pressure and antitrust headwinds.