Apple Considers $14 Billion Acquisition of Perplexity AI to Strengthen AI Efforts

Apple Inc. has appointed John Ternus as its new CEO, replacing Tim Cook, who served for 15 years. During Cook's tenure, Apple's stock rose significantly, with a $1,000 investment in 2011 worth $23,776.42 today, excluding dividends. The company became the first $2 trillion and $3 trillion public company under Cook's leadership.

BASF filed a lawsuit against Apple in the U.S. District Court of Texas, alleging that Apple's iPhone and iPad models infringe on its face authentication patents. The case involves multiple Apple devices and centers on patented technology.

Apple (AAPL) stock has risen 20% year-to-date, but analysts are divided. Evercore ISI notes App Store revenue declined 1% YoY in August, raising concerns about Services growth. Morgan Stanley sees potential in the upcoming foldable iPhone, estimating $14B in December quarter revenue. Hedge fund interest has slightly declined, with 169 funds holding positions in Q2 2026.

Apple faces a £2 billion lawsuit in London from app developers, alleging unfair competition via its App Tracking Transparency feature. Lawyers claim the policy favors Apple's services. Ann Pope, leading the case, states it harms businesses reliant on Apple. The feature has faced scrutiny in Europe. Apple's stock is up 1.75% to $330.58.

Apple faces a £2bn lawsuit in London from app developers over its App Tracking Transparency rules. The developers claim Apple imposes stricter rules on third parties, giving its own services an advantage. Apple argues the feature enhances user privacy. The lawsuit follows regulatory scrutiny in Europe, with Apple recently agreeing to changes in Germany.

Apple CEO Tim Cook will step down on Sept. 1, with John Ternus taking over. During Cook's tenure, Apple's shares rose over 2,700%. His legacy includes an $879 billion share buyback program, reducing outstanding shares by 44.5%. Buybacks accelerated after the 2018 tax cuts, boosting earnings per share and P/E ratio.