Tim Cook says he is not meddling in John Ternus’ work as Apple CEO

Tim Cook says he is not interfering in John Ternus’ work as Apple’s CEO, describing their relationship as one built on trust and frequent communication.

In an interview with The Independent, Cook said he is focused on worldwide policy and Apple’s work with governments, while helping Ternus “in any way he sees fit.” Cook said he and Ternus trust each other and that he is “not a meddler.”

Cook stepped down as Apple CEO in September, handing the role to Ternus, Apple’s former hardware chief. Cook became executive chairman and remains a visible representative of the company.

Cook said he had urged Ternus to make the CEO role his own, focus on where he could add the most value, and avoid mimicking Cook, just as Cook had not mimicked Steve Jobs. He said the transition began years ago and had gone as he envisioned. Cook also said he wanted Ternus to have “some wind at his back.” Ternus introduced the iPhone Duo days after taking over, according to the source.