John Ternus, a key figure at Apple, is poised to succeed Tim Cook as CEO if Cook steps down. Ternus, currently 50, shares a similar age with Cook when he took the helm in 2011. Known for his meticulous nature and deep understanding of Apple's supply chain, Ternus has emerged as a strong candidate among several potential successors. Others in the running include Craig Federighi, head of software; Eddy Cue, head of services; Greg Joswiak, head of marketing; and Deirdre O’Brien, who oversees retail and human resources. Despite Ternus's relatively low public profile, insiders believe he has gained significant traction within the company. His collaborative approach mirrors Cook's, allowing him to maneuver through Apple's complex corporate structure effectively. In a notable anecdote, the article references a 2018 consideration of adding a laser to iPhones, which reflects Ternus's involvement in product decisions that balance innovation with profit margins. This attention to detail positions him as a capable leader for Apple's future.