But over at Apple, change could be afoot, as new reports have emerged claiming that long-time CEO Tim Cook could step down as soon as next year. However, with talk of Cook stepping down, rumors of who might step up start flooding the internet. There are big potential names who could take over Apple when the Cook era ends, ranging from hardware leads to marketing heads. Potential Tim Cook SuccessorsWhile Apple has not officially announced a succession plan publicly, that hasn't stopped speculation and rumors from circulating. Clearly, the company already sees Ternus as well-equipped to get on stage and show off Apple's new products, a pivotal part of being Apple's CEO.