Tim Cook is set to step down as CEO of Apple in September, handing over the reins to John Ternus, currently head of hardware.

Ternus takes charge at a time when Apple's once-vaunted control over its ecosystem—particularly through the App Store’s 30% commission—faces increasing scrutiny. This transition has significant implications for startups and developers, as they navigate a more open and potentially less profitable environment.

The move comes amid broader shifts in tech: from the growing pushback against big tech companies’ dominance to the rise of user-generated content through ‘vibe-coded apps’. Apple’s future under Ternus may involve navigating these new dynamics while maintaining its product leadership.

Meanwhile, TechCrunch’s Equity podcast will explore the implications of this transition and discuss other major tech news from the week, including SpaceX's latest funding round. The podcast episodes are available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.