New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) As Apple CEO Tim Cook prepares to step down in September, he leaves behind not only a $4 trillion corporation but also a significantly transformed narrative for India, which his successor, John Ternus, is expected to advance.

The company's strategic initiatives in India are poised to gain even more traction under Ternus, as experts emphasize the country's increasing significance as both a manufacturing center and a vital consumer market.

Experts indicate that during Cook's leadership, India has become one of Apple’s most crucial markets worldwide, encompassing production, retail growth, and a rapidly expanding user ecosystem.

They anticipate that India will persist in its dual role for Apple as a key production site and a high-growth market, influencing the next stage of its global expansion.

Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint Research, remarked that Cook was instrumental in unlocking India’s potential, positioning it at the heart of Apple’s long-term strategy.

Pathak noted that Cook not only spearheaded Apple’s manufacturing and retail growth in India but also fostered robust relationships with developers and users, enhancing engagement with the local market.

He added that Ternus must build upon this groundwork, particularly given India’s extensive growth potential, with his engineering-focused background and leadership style likely to resonate with the country’s youthful and ambitious user demographic.

Prabhu Ram, Vice President at CyberMedia Research (CMR), stated that India is becoming increasingly central to Apple’s strategy for global supply chain diversification.

He highlighted that Apple currently assembles approximately a quarter of its global iPhones in India, positioning the nation to drive the company’s future growth trajectory, akin to the role China played in earlier years.

Ram also pointed out that Cook’s time at the helm was characterized by effective execution and adaptability, especially in navigating geopolitical challenges and reducing reliance on China by scaling up manufacturing in regions like India and Vietnam.

Upon announcing his decision to step down, Cook, who has led Apple since 2011, stated: "It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple."

During Cook’s leadership, Apple’s market capitalization soared to around $4 trillion from about $350 billion, while annual revenues nearly quadrupled to over $416 billion, according to company reports.

However, in March, Cook had dismissed rumors surrounding his departure, labeling them as "a rumor" and reaffirming his dedication to leading the company.