Technology Desk: There is going to be a big leadership change in tech giant Apple today. The nearly 15-year long tenure of the company's CEO Tim Cook is ending on August 31. John Ternes will take over as the new CEO of Apple from September 1. At the same time, Tim Cook will remain in the role of Executive Chairman of the company.
Tim Cook took over the reins of Apple after Steve Jobs in 2011. Under his leadership, the company not only witnessed huge growth in earnings and market value, but also entered many new product categories. During his tenure, Apple was not limited to just iPhone and Mac. Tim Cook not only allowed Apple to remain a hardware company, but also made it strong in services and new technology segments.
Apple Watch created a new identity
Apple launched the first Apple Watch in 2015. Initially it was introduced as a smartwatch and fashion device, but with time the company added many health features to it. Features like ECG, blood oxygen monitoring and fall detection were included in Apple Watch. Gradually it became included in Apple's major product categories.
AirPods changed the wireless audio market
Apple launched AirPods in 2016. After this, wireless earphones became very popular. The company's custom chip technology was used to easily connect AirPods with other Apple devices. Today, AirPods are among Apple's most popular products and have a strong presence in the wireless audio market.
Big change from Apple Silicon to Mac
Apple Silicon chips are also considered among the biggest technological achievements of Tim Cook's tenure. In 2020, Apple began using its own designed chips in Mac computers instead of Intel processors. These chips provided better performance and power efficiency. Later Apple also used its chip technology in other devices like iPad.
AirTag made finding things easier
In 2021, Apple launched AirTag. This is a small Bluetooth tracker, with the help of which users can easily find keys, bags or other items. Connecting AirTag to Apple's Find My network further increases its usefulness. This small device joined Apple's new product category during the Tim Cook era.
Steps towards Spatial Computing
Apple also stepped into new areas of computing under the leadership of Tim Cook. The company showed its focus on Spatial Computing through Vision Pro. It aims to bring together digital content and real-world experience.
What is Tim Cook's greatest legacy?
Tim Cook's biggest achievement was that he did not allow Apple to be limited to just making iPhones and Macs. During his tenure, the company expanded into areas like Wearables, Wireless Audio, Custom Chips, Digital Services and Spatial Computing.
Steve Jobs gave Apple a special identity through his innovative products. Tim Cook worked to transform that foundation into a large and interconnected technology ecosystem. Now even after stepping down from the post of CEO, Tim Cook will remain associated with Apple. John Turnus will have a big responsibility to take the company forward in its next innings.