Apple’s John Ternus Prioritizes Useful AI, With Cook’s Support

WHO:

Wired - John Ternus is Apple’s new leader and is described as a “product guy.”

Wired - Tim Cook is “available to help wherever I ask” on policy, according to Ternus.

Wired - Ternus has yet to meet Trump.

Inc - Steve Jobs told Tim Cook never to ask a particular question; the article does not specify the question in the provided text.

WHAT:

Wired - Ternus said Apple doesn’t “want to ship AI for AI’s sake.”

Wired - The article says Apple “doesn’t need fixing” and “doesn’t want drama.”

Inc - Apple’s latest move involves a touchscreen Mac and is presented as an example of a company changing its mind and disregarding what a founder may have wanted.

WHY:

Wired - Ternus’s stated position is that Apple should not ship AI solely for AI’s sake.

Inc - The article says Apple’s touchscreen Mac illustrates that changing a company’s position and departing from a founder’s wishes can be wise.

(UPDATED October 31, 2026 10:58 UTC)

Apple’s new leader, John Ternus, says the company doesn’t need drama or AI for its own sake. Tim Cook remains available to advise Ternus on policy, though Ternus has yet to meet Trump. Apple’s move toward touchscreen Macs marks a shift from founder Steve Jobs’s preferences.