Tim Cook Departs Apple After 15 Years, Unveils AI Advancements at Final WWDC

Tim Cook bid farewell to Apple employees at his final Worldwide Developers Conference, marking the end of his 15-year tenure as CEO. John Ternus will assume the CEO role on September 1.

Cook, visibly moved, presented Apple Intelligence, the company's latest leap in AI development, which was the central theme of the keynote. He reflected on his time leading Apple, stating, "It was a unique experience to lead this company. If I've learned one thing, it's that nothing is impossible and the best is yet to come."

The presentation also introduced macOS Golden Gate, a new version of the operating system named in homage to San Francisco. Software chief Craig Federighi highlighted that every component of macOS has been re-evaluated for effectiveness and efficiency, incorporating user feedback. A new "Liquid Glass" interface faced criticism, but the update includes options to reduce transparency for better readability. Apps and content loading, such as photos, are promised to be up to 70 percent faster.

Updates extend to iOS, with iOS 27 compatible with older iPhones running iOS 26. The search function across iPadOS, macOS, and iOS has been overhauled for easier content discovery. Visual enhancements are applied to apps like Health, which will include perimenopause tracking. AirPods users will gain more customization, including an equalizer. Apple also emphasized its updated child safety features, designed with expert input to give parents control over app access based on age.

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It was a unique experience to lead this company. If I've learned one thing, it's that nothing is impossible and the best is yet to come.