John Ternus makes his debut as Apple CEO, unveiling the new iPhone Duo and AI tools at the product event.
During Apple's annual product event held on September 9, 2026, John Ternus made his debut as CEO, announcing the introduction of a groundbreaking foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo. This announcement, reported by Deadline, highlights Ternus's new role following his recent succession of Tim Cook.
The iPhone Duo, designed to enhance user experience, features a display that is 80% larger when unfolded than the current iPhone Pro model and 50% larger than the iPhone Max edition. This innovative device, which folds to the size of a passport, will retail for $1,999, with pre-orders starting on October 16. Retail availability is set for the following week. Apple emphasizes that this form factor opens new possibilities for entertainment and productivity, aiming to set it apart from competitors like Samsung and Huawei, which Ternus criticized for their less elegant designs.
Alongside the iPhone Duo, Ternus discussed new artificial intelligence tools poised to be integrated into Apple's ecosystem. He noted that Apple is taking a unique stance compared to industry giants such as Meta, Microsoft, and Google, focusing on user privacy while integrating AI. Ternus remarked, "Trust only goes so far when your data is no longer yours to control," emphasizing that Apple Intelligence will run predominantly on-device to ensure data security.
John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook on September 1, 2026, made headlines for his smooth transition amid Apple's leadership changes. Tim Cook, having helmed the company since 2011, was pivotal in stabilizing the firm post-Steve Jobs. The event format has evolved from live showcases to pre-recorded presentations since the pandemic, allowing for a polished unveil of new products.
As Apple introduced its latest innovations, including not only the iPhone Duo but also updates to Siri, Apple Watch, and AirPods, it's expected that these enhancements will resonate with a tech-savvy audience eager for cutting-edge features that prioritize both functionality and user privacy. Given the stakes around consumer expectations, Ternus's approach could define his tenure as CEO.
The unveiling of the iPhone Duo and advancements in AI tools signify a pivotal moment for Apple under new leadership. As Ternus steps into his role, the successful launch of the Duo may reflect the company’s capacity to innovate while adhering to its core values of user privacy. Meanwhile, the contemporary design and larger screen could position the iPhone Duo as a strong competitor in the foldable smartphone market. The company's focus on seamless integration of AI tools could also redefine user engagement with Apple's ecosystem in the years to come.
For more detailed reporting on the iPhone Duo and other Apple innovations, check out our coverage on Apple Unveils iPhone Duo, Its First Foldable Smartphone and explore what other advancements might be on the horizon for Apple products.
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