Apple(US:AAPL) 智通财经网·2025-07-09 00:32Core Viewpoint - The retirement of Apple's COO Jeff Williams marks a significant management change during a turbulent period for the company, with Sabih Khan set to take over the role [1][2]. Group 1: Management Changes - Jeff Williams will retire this month, continuing to lead the design team and health projects until his official retirement later this year [1]. - Sabih Khan, who has been with Apple for 30 years and joined the executive team in 2019, will succeed Williams as COO [1][2]. - Khan's responsibilities may expand to include departments like AppleCare, and he will report directly to CEO Tim Cook [1][2]. Group 2: Challenges Ahead - Khan will face challenges including tariff costs, slowing iPhone growth, and global regulatory pressures [1][4]. - The company is also lagging in the AI sector, with reports of startups developing hardware that could replace Apple's devices [1][4]. - Regulatory pressures include potential changes to App Store rules and legal challenges regarding a significant revenue partnership with Google [4]. Group 3: Legacy and Impact - Williams has been a key figure at Apple, known for his contributions to the supply chain and product development, particularly with the Apple Watch [2][3]. - His departure is seen as one of the most impactful personnel changes in Apple's history, with former colleagues expressing regret over his exit [2][3]. - The transition to Khan is expected to be smooth, but other areas previously managed by Williams may face challenges [3]. Group 4: Broader Executive Changes - Williams' retirement continues a trend of executive turnover at Apple, with several high-profile departures in recent years [5]. - The company is experiencing a generational shift in leadership, as many executives are of similar age and nearing retirement [5].