Tim Cook Downplays Credit for Apple’s Post-Jobs Growth

Apple's success: A legacy shared by Cook and Steve Jobs

As Apple's market valuation soars to new heights under CEO Tim Cook, surpassing $3 trillion in September, some have wondered if Cook deserves more credit for the company's massive growth since taking over from late co-founder Steve Jobs in 2011.

But in a recent "Dua Lipa: At Your Service" podcast interview, Cook quickly shared the success with Jobs.

The podcast reveals that Cook deflects sole credit to Jobs

"I don't look at it like that at all," Cook said when asked if he should get more recognition. "Steve was an original, and I think only Steve could have created Apple."

Cook added that he believes Jobs would still be CEO today if he were alive, even with Apple hitting unprecedented financial milestones during Cook's tenure.

While not diminishing his contributions, Cook made clear that Apple's achievements build on the visionary foundation laid by Jobs. Since being hand-picked by Jobs to take the reins, Cook has leveraged his renowned operational expertise to drive Apple to new heights.

He's also guided Apple into promising new product categories like wearables and expanded service offerings and reportedly has an Apple car project underway.

Still, Cook sees his role as continuing Jobs' legacy. "I get to work with people that I love and who are unbelievable at what they do," Cook said. "So we share the credit from the company."

With Apple stock up over 1,100% since Cook took over, there appears to be plenty of credit.