Apple is stepping up succession planning as CEO Tim Cook, now 65, could leave as early as next year

Apple is stepping up succession planning as CEO Tim Cook, now 65, could leave as early as next year after nearly 15 years at the helm. The board is reportedly considering John Ternus, senior vice president of hardware engineering, as the leading candidate, following major leadership reshuffles earlier this year.

Under Cook, Apple’s valuation soared from $350 billion to about $4 trillion. But the company faces existential challenges in AI and next-gen devices, prompting calls for fresh vision. Apple succession details.

Meanwhile, a growing trend is raising alarms: people forming romantic relationships with AI companions and even role-playing digital children. A recent study found users of apps like Replika simulate marriages and pregnancies, with one participant saying,

“She was and is pregnant with my babies,” according to researchers.

Experts warn of “companionship addiction” and mental health risks, as regulators in New York and California push for safeguards. Read more on AI relationships.

On the political front, Wall Street billionaires met at a White House dinner hosted by Donald Trump to strategize against Zohran Mamdani, New York’s mayor-elect and a self-described democratic socialist. His plans for wealth taxes, rent freezes, and free public transport have sparked backlash. Attendees reportedly discussed backing Republican Elise Stefanik for governor in 2026 to counter Mamdani’s agenda. Full story here.

In entertainment, YouTube star Cody Detwiler, known as WhistlinDiesel, was arrested in Tennessee for felony tax evasion tied to a $400,000 Ferrari F8 Tributo he famously set ablaze in a viral video. Authorities allege he dodged state sales tax by registering the car in Montana, a loophole long used by supercar owners. Detwiler faces up to six years in prison if convicted. Details on the case.

Hollywood gossip resurfaces with a quirky anecdote: a crew member yelling “Iceberg!” during the filming of Titanic has become a cult story, revived in a new documentary exploring behind-the-scenes chaos. More on the documentary.

In Asia, China escalated tensions with Japan by sending coast guard ships near the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands and warning citizens about safety risks in Japan. The move follows remarks by Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggesting Tokyo could intervene militarily if China attacks Taiwan. Tourism and retail shares in Japan plunged after Beijing’s travel advisory. Read the full report.

In the Middle East, Iran launched emergency cloud-seeding operations as rainfall dropped 89% below average, marking the driest autumn in 50 years. Officials warn Tehran could face water rationing or even partial evacuation if conditions persist. Lake Urmia, once the region’s largest saltwater lake, has shrunk to a vast salt plain. Full analysis here.

Michelle Obama shut down speculation about a presidential run, stating bluntly,