‘This is an extraordinary moment…’, CEO Tim Cook tells Apple employees as they get extra days off

Apple CEO Tim Cook

Apple CEO Tim Cook has continued a long-standing tradition by granting staff extra time off for Thanksgiving week. In a memo sent to employees, Cook praised their achievements and confirmed that most US teams will receive three additional days of leave—Monday through Wednesday—leading into the holiday. Retail, AppleCare, and international teams will be able to use the time at a later date.

The practice, which began under Steve Jobs and became known internally as “Steve Days,” is Apple’s way of recognising employee contributions at the close of the year. Cook framed the decision as both a thank-you and a celebration of what Apple has accomplished in 2025, citing momentum around the iPhone 17, progress with Apple TV+ awards, and the broader ecosystem’s impact on developers and users.

“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 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.”

Cook closed the note with optimism about the company’s direction, calling this “an extraordinary moment for Apple” and encouraging staff to share in his excitement about “the future we’re shaping together.”

The gesture represents both continuity of Jobs’ ethos and a tangible acknowledgement of a year marked by strong performance and ambitious product rollouts.