Tim Cook dismisses retirement rumours, says 'I can’t imagine life without Apple'

Apple CEO Tim Cook has pushed back against growing speculation about his retirement, making it clear that he is not planning to step away anytime soon. In a recent interview with Michael Strahan on Good Morning America, Cook dismissed talk of his exit as “a rumor,” while stopping short of giving any definitive timeline for his future at the company.

“I can’t imagine life without Apple,” Cook said, underscoring his deep personal and professional connection to the tech giant he has led since 2011.

"You either die a hero or live long enough to become the villain,” Cook said.

"I love what I do deeply. Twenty-eight years ago, I walked into Apple, and I’ve loved every day of it since,” he further added.

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Apple preparing for transition 

The comments come amid heightened scrutiny over Apple’s leadership stability and long-term direction. A report by the Financial Times last year suggested that Apple was preparing for a potential leadership transition as early as 2026.

While that timeline now appears uncertain, attention has increasingly turned to possible successors. Among them, John Ternus, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, is widely seen as a frontrunner.

Cook, who turned 65 last year, has led Apple through one of the most transformative periods in its history, expanding its services business and strengthening its global market position. Even after stepping down, he could remain influential as executive chairman of Apple’s board.

Apple is approaching its 50th anniversary on April 1, while simultaneously navigating internal changes and external pressures. The company has seen a series of high-profile departures, including AI chief John Giannandrea and other senior executives, raising questions about leadership continuity.

Apple evolving AI space 

At the same time, Apple faces mounting expectations in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence space.

The company is reportedly preparing to launch new products, including a foldable iPhone and AI-powered glasses, while working to overhaul its voice assistant Siri after delays. Its partnership with Google to integrate Gemini into iPhones has further fueled debate over its AI strategy.

Despite these challenges, Cook’s message is clear: he remains committed to Apple’s future, even as conversations about succession and the company’s next phase continue to intensify.