Tim Cook steps down as Apple CEO: A letter to all employees bids farewell to 15 years at the helm, saying he will miss the job.

Tim Cook's 15-year tenure at the helm of Apple officially came to an end on Monday. The CEO, who ushered Apple into a new era, sent a farewell letter to all employees on his final day in office, a letter filled with heartfelt emotion yet also revealing a thoughtful and composed acceptance.

On August 31, according to Mark Gurman, a well-known Apple insider, Cook sent this internal letter to all employees on the day he stepped down. In the letter, he stated that he "will not leave Apple," but is simply relinquishing the position he "loves dearly," and frankly admitted that he "will miss this job very much."

At the same time, he expressed confidence in his successor, John Ternus, saying, "Few people understand as much as John what it takes to build world-changing products," and he has high expectations for John's leadership.

Cook will continue his role at Apple as executive chairman, with responsibilities including communications with governments around the world. This arrangement means he will continue to exert influence on the company's strategy and external relations.

15 Years in Charge: From Successor to Record Creator

In August 2011, shortly before Steve Jobs' passing, Tim Cook officially took over as Apple CEO, becoming the helmsman of the world's most valuable technology company.

This 15-year term sets a new record for the longest-serving CEO in Apple's history.

Under his leadership, Apple launched two new product categories, Apple Watch and AirPods, and significantly expanded its product lines for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, gradually transforming Apple from a hardware company specializing in computers and smartphones into an ecosystem giant spanning hardware, software, and services.

In his farewell letter, Cook attributed Apple's success to the power of its corporate culture, rather than the achievements of any individual. "This company has proven that corporate culture can overcome anything," he wrote, citing Apple employees' belief in the company's mission as the root of its extraordinary qualities.

He quoted Steve Jobs' famous quote about "leaving a mark on the universe," emphasizing that Apple's strength stems from the shared values and worldview of its team members.

Cook's stance on the passing of the scepter was clear. He described Ternus as "intelligent, excellent, and exceptionally capable," and said he felt "very reassured" to entrust him with the heavy responsibility of taking the helm.

New character: Does not leave the field, but changes position.

In his letter, Cook specifically emphasized "I will not leave Apple" in response to speculation that he was leaving completely.

After becoming executive chairman, Cook is expected to continue to be involved in some of the company's core affairs, particularly in global policy communications and government relations, an important function he has historically been personally involved in during his tenure.

For Apple, this power transition is significant beyond just personnel changes. Ternus, taking the helm, will face core challenges such as how to maintain Apple's momentum in product innovation and how to find a new positioning for Apple in the wave of artificial intelligence.

Cook's decision to remain as executive chairman provides a buffer for a stable transition to some extent.

Appendix: Full text of Tim Cook's farewell letter to all Apple employees

Dear colleagues:

Today is my last day as CEO of Apple.

I knew this day would come eventually, but when it actually arrived and I write these words, I still find it hard to believe.

I deeply love this company and every team member behind it. I can't just let today pass by without writing you all a letter—thank you for all the kindness you've shown me, thank you for your unwavering dedication day after day, and what I cherish most is that I am fortunate to have been your leader in this lifetime.

To be honest, when people talk about my achievements, they all attribute it to you. You brought out the best in me. In my entire life, I have never worked with such an outstanding team, and every day I witness this extraordinary achievement.

Apple has something truly unique. What I'm most proud of is something that can never be fully expressed in an annual report. This company proves that corporate culture can overcome anything. We share a common belief: what we create is meaningful; we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to make the world a better place.

This mission is part of Apple's extraordinary appeal. Apple nurtures this belief, but I believe it was already ingrained in everyone's heart long before you joined us. It is this belief that led you to choose Apple and continues to drive your daily work.

Together, we have created something far beyond what any one person could have imagined or accomplished on their own. This is the secret to our success: we support and help each other.

As Steve once said, we are able to leave our mark on the universe because of our character, beliefs, values, and how we see the world. How fortunate we are, and how fortunate I am.

As you all know, I am not leaving Apple, but simply stepping down from this position that I love so much. While I am completely at peace with my decision, I will miss this job dearly. I will miss leading everyone and walking alongside you through every stage of our journey. At the same time, I feel very secure handing the reins to someone as intelligent, talented, and capable as John (Ternus). Few people understand as well as John what it takes to build world-changing products, and I have high hopes for his leadership of the company.

I want you to understand that I am deeply grateful to you all, and it is a tremendous honor for me to serve as your CEO. Most importantly, I hope you continue to be proud to be part of this extraordinary Apple team and give your all. When we are fully committed to our work, care for one another, and have our users in our hearts, the profound impact we can create is immeasurable.

I look forward to meeting everyone in my new role, both at Apple Park and around the world.

I give you everything I have.

Your Cook

Risk warning and disclaimerInvesting involves risk; please exercise caution. This article does not constitute personal investment advice and does not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation, or needs of individual users. Users should consider whether any opinions, views, or conclusions in this article are suitable for their specific circumstances. Any investment decisions made based on this information are at your own risk.