2026 could shape Apple CEO Tim Cook's legacy

Analysts say a long-delayed Siri update and a possible foldable iPhone in 2026, together with intensified succession planning and Apple’s AI posture, could influence CEO Tim Cook’s final chapter.

Tim Cook has led Apple for nearly 15 years and 2026 is being framed by analysts as a consequential year for the company and its CEO. The discussion centers on product moves such as a Siri overhaul and a potential foldable iPhone, Apple’s positioning in artificial intelligence, and ongoing succession planning. These topics follow a turbulent 2025 that included policy shifts, supply-chain changes, and leadership turnover. Industry observers are watching how these elements come together over the next 12–18 months. Key developments: - Apple is planning a long-delayed update to Siri that analysts say is intended to strengthen its AI capabilities. - Supply-chain analysts and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman have predicted a foldable iPhone could arrive as early as the fall of 2026, though Apple has not confirmed product plans. - Apple reached a $4 trillion market capitalization in October 2025 but faced headwinds from tariffs and intensified competition in some markets. - Revenue in China was reported down 4% in the most recent quarter, and regional competitors such as Xiaomi and Huawei have been gaining traction with local users. - Policy shifts motivated some production moves to India and prompted pledges of expanded US investment under recent trade priorities. - Apple has seen leadership changes: John Giannandrea announced plans to retire in spring 2026 and Jeff Williams retired in 2025, while reports say Tim Cook has intensified an internal search for a successor. Summary: Apple’s product timetable, AI strategy, and succession planning are being highlighted as the factors most likely to shape how Tim Cook’s tenure is remembered. Undetermined at this time.