Ahead of Step-Down, Tim Cook's Same-Sex Partner Attends Apple Farewell Party

Apple CEO Tim Cook, famously known for keeping his personal life private, exceptionally opened up about his personal life during a farewell event ahead of his stepping down, the tech-focused media outlet The Information reported on the 24th (local time), citing sources.

According to the report, Cook mentioned his partner's attendance during a speech at his farewell party held on the 23rd at Apple Park, the headquarters in Cupertino, California, referring to him as "Mike."

An insider noted that Cook bringing up personal matters itself was unusual.

Aside from publicly coming out as gay in 2014, Cook has rarely mentioned his personal life in official settings.

Cook is set to hand over his position to incoming CEO John Ternus on the 1st of next month and transition to Chairman of the Board, where he will continue to support specific areas of the company, such as engaging with policymakers.

Apple gave him a grand send-off at the event.

Part of the event took place at Cafe Mac, the employee cafeteria inside Apple Park, and the pop band OneRepublic performed in the central circular plaza.

The approximately 200 attendees were mostly Apple employees, and Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of late co-founder Steve Jobs, former Chief Operating Officer (COO) Jeff Williams, Senior Vice President Eddy Cue, and Ternus delivered tributes to Cook.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.