Tim Cook publicly introduces same-sex partner 'Mike' at Apple farewell event

Apple CEO Tim Cook publicly introduced his same-sex partner for the first time at a farewell event held ahead of his departure from the role.

According to The Information, a US technology news outlet, Cook introduced his partner — referring to him as "Mike" — at a farewell gathering held Monday at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, saying his partner was also in attendance.

Attendees said it was unusual for Cook to share personal details in a public setting. Since coming out in 2014, he has rarely spoken about his private life at official events. Cook came out in an essay published in Bloomberg Businessweek, writing, "I'm proud to be gay."

About 200 Apple employees and guests attended the event, where pop band OneRepublic performed. Late co-founder Steve Jobs' widow Laurene Powell Jobs, former Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams, who retired last year, and Eddy Cue, who leads Apple's services and health businesses, were among those who offered tributes.

Cook will hand over the CEO role to John Ternus on Tuesday and move into the position of Apple board chair. He is expected to continue supporting certain company functions, including engagement with policymakers.

Both inside and outside Apple, there is wide expectation that significant management continuity will be maintained after the leadership transition. At his final earnings conference call, Cook said, "The transition is going smoothly, and I'm very excited for John to take on his new role and lead Apple into its next era."