Apple CEO Tim Cook has announced that the company will give all employees three additional days off during Thanksgiving week, continuing a longstanding tradition from the Steve Jobs era known as “Steve days.” In his annual companywide memo, Cook expressed enthusiasm about the company’s recent achievements, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter

CEO Tim Cook awards employees “Steve Days” this year for their “outstanding work”

“I really could not be prouder of the impact we’re having on our customers and the opportunities we’re creating for our incredible developers and the world,” Cook wrote, in his memo to employees, per memo. “In recognition of your outstanding work, I’m pleased to share that everyone will receive an additional three days off to relax and spend time with loved ones.”According to the memo, most US-based teams will take Monday through Wednesday off before Thanksgiving, while retail, AppleCare, and international teams can use their days at a later date. Cook emphasised that the break is “well deserved this year in light of your impressive achievements and the company’s performance.”

Apple records a blockbuster September with new iPhone 17s

The announcement comes just weeks after Apple wrapped up its September product launch event. The iPhone 17 lineup, including the ultra-thin iPhone Air, along with Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and AirPods Pro 3, opened to blockbuster sales, marking one of the biggest iPhone launches in the company’s history

New MacBooks and iPad Pro Expected in 2025-2026

Looking ahead to late 2025, Apple is expected to introduce several new products including the M5 iPad Pro, AirTag 2 with improved Ultra Wideband technology for better range, a refreshed Apple TV 4K with a faster processor and Apple-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, and an updated HomePod mini with new color options.For 2026, Gurman reports that Apple is nearing mass production of its next-generation MacBook Pros and MacBook Airs, along with two new Mac external monitors. These M5-powered devices are slated for release between late 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. Additionally, Apple plans to launch the iPhone 17e, a new low-end iPad, and an updated iPad Air in the first half of next year, helping to better differentiate its product tiers for consumers.