OpenAI chief Sam Altman has weighed in on the leadership transition at Apple. In an announcement on Monday, Apple’s board confirmed the move will end an era, with Tim Cook stepping down as CEO and John Ternus assuming the role. The company called it the culmination of a “thoughtful, long-term succession planning process.”
Sam Altman has some words of praise for former Apple CEO Tim Cook
Sam Altman has offered heartfelt praise for former Apple CEO Tim Cook, recognizing the vision, discipline, and integrity that defined his leadership and transformed the company. Cook is concluding his 15-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer. He will be succeeded by John Ternus, who currently leads Apple’s hardware engineering, as the company enters its next era. Addressing employees and customers, Cook wrote, “This is not a goodbye,” confirming he will continue at Apple as executive chairman.
With more than 25 years at Apple, Ternus has operated largely behind the scenes, leading development of the company’s most critical hardware. His work spans iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and he has played a pivotal role in shaping Apple’s current generation of devices. Now, the hardware chief is set to lead Apple into its next phase, stepping in at a critical time when the company is accelerating its progress in AI amid intensifying competition.
News of the transition drew widespread reaction on social media, with many calling it the end of an era. OpenAI’s chief, Altman, joined in, posting on X (formerly Twitter) that Cook is a “legend.” He added, “I am very thankful for everything he has done and I am very grateful to Apple.”
Tim Cook is a legend.
— Sam Altman (@sama) April 20, 2026
I am very thankful for everything he has done and I am very thankful for Apple.
Reactions poured in within minutes of Cook’s note. One user wrote, “tim’s vision really pushed apple’s game to the next level, gotta respect the hustle and innovation :)” Another tweeted, “Interesting to see mutual respect between leaders despite competition. Legend calling legend.” A third comment read, “Tim Cook turning Apple into the most valuable company on earth while making it look effortless is impressive as hell. Respect.”
Originally reported by Sibanee Gogoi on Mandatory.
