Cook Departs, Ternus Takes Reins at Apple Amid A.I. Pressure

Tim Cook is stepping down as CEO of Apple on September 1 after 15 years at the helm. He will be replaced by John Ternus, Senior Vice-President of Hardware Engineering. During his tenure, Cook oversaw the growth of Apple's market capitalization from $350 billion to just under $5 trillion.

Cook took over as CEO in August 2011 following Steve Jobs' death and has been credited with expanding existing product lines and introducing new consumer electronics like the Apple Watch. He also turned Apple into a services giant, launching products such as Apple TV and digital wallet.

However, critics have pointed out that Apple's artificial intelligence strategy has been lacking under Cook's leadership. Analysts are now looking to Ternus to deliver a strong A.I. plan for the company. Cook will transition to executive chair of Apple's board of directors.