Updated
Updated · Quartz · Aug 31
John Ternus Takes Apple CEO Role Before Sept. 9 Launch as AI Gap Pressures Siri Rebuild
Updated
Updated · Quartz · Aug 31

John Ternus Takes Apple CEO Role Before Sept. 9 Launch as AI Gap Pressures Siri Rebuild

3 articles · Updated · Quartz · Aug 31

Summary

  • Sept. 1 puts John Ternus, 51, in charge of Apple just days before a Sept. 9 Cupertino event expected to unveil a foldable iPhone, new Apple Watches and a rebuilt Siri.
  • Google's Gemini underpins that Siri overhaul after delays in Apple's generative AI push triggered criticism and an internal shake-up; Apple plans a full September rollout, with early reviews described as positive.
  • Tim Cook shifts to executive chairman and will keep handling ties with President Donald Trump and the Chinese government, while Art Levinson becomes lead independent director.
  • Ternus also inherits a hardware pipeline including camera-equipped AirPods, smart glasses and a robotic-arm display, though several projects slipped because Apple's AI software was not ready.
  • Apple's broader challenge extends beyond AI: persistent memory and storage chip shortages have lifted prices, and the company does not expect relief before next year.

Insights

Will Tim Cook's departure expose a stagnant innovation pipeline, or is a radical hardware revolution secretly waiting in the wings?
With Google's Gemini powering its core, has the world's most secretive tech giant finally surrendered its independence to stay relevant?