It’s officially the Ternus era at Apple, with former hardware chief John Ternus stepping up as CEO, taking over from Tim Cook. Cook, meanwhile, remains as Executive Chairman, focusing on policy relationships, a role that recently turned a simple map update into a major public relations challenge.

The timing of Ternus’s debut is strategic, with the next iPhone event scheduled to be his first major challenge. This early pressure could indicate an ambitious approach or a need to prove himself quickly, given the high stakes involved.

On the TechCrunch Equity podcast, hosts Kirsten Korosec and Sean O’Kane discuss how Ternus might navigate the complexities of both hardware and software in the AI era. With Cook’s experience and influence, Ternus faces a unique set of challenges, including managing shareholder expectations and balancing public and private interests.

Given the recent focus on software innovations and the company’s ongoing efforts in areas like Apple Watch and augmented reality, some speculate that Ternus might prioritize software development. However, Apple’s deep roots in hardware mean that this might not be the case. The coming months will reveal whether Ternus can steer the ship with both precision and innovation.

As the world watches, the question remains: will Ternus prove capable of leading Apple through its next phase of growth, or will the legacy of Cook’s era continue to shape decisions?