Apple's upcoming product launches will be significantly influenced by John Ternus, who is set to assume the CEO role in September 2026. Ternus, who took charge of the design team in January 2026, has expressed his intention to maintain a strong focus on design, asserting that it is fundamental to Apple's identity. According to a report from Bloomberg, he emphasized to employees that Apple will continue to prioritize design excellence, highlighting that the best-designed products available to consumers are from Apple.
Under Ternus's leadership, the first major releases will include the iPhone 18 series, aimed at commemorating the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone. The company is also working on innovative products like a new iPhone Fold and AirPods featuring cameras, projected for launch in 2027. Reports suggest that these projects are already in testing, indicating Ternus's active involvement in shaping the future of Apple’s product lineup.
This shift marks a notable departure from the leadership style of Tim Cook, who faced criticism for his lack of hands-on engagement with the design teams, a contrast to Ternus's dedication to this area. As Ternus prepares to take over, the focus on design may signal a new era for Apple, potentially redefining its product development approach.