Steve Jobs Dead: Apple Co-Founder Dies Aged 56
Steve Jobs has passed away, Apple Inc. confirmed Wednesday. Jobs, the mastermind behind Apple's iPhone, iPad, iPod and many other technology landmark products, died in California Wednesday, at age 56.
Jobs co-founded Apple Inc. in 1976 and marketed the world's first personal computer, the Apple II.
In 2004, he overcame an unusual form of pancreatic cancer, and in 2009, he was forced to get a liver transplant.
Further deteriorating health led Jobs to announce that he was stepping down as Apple's CEO on Aug. 24.
"I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know," Jobs wrote in his letter of resignation. "Unfortunately, that day has come."
Jobs was listed in March as 109th on Forbes' list of the world's billionaires, with a net personal worth of approximately $8.3 billion.
Apple performed well during Jobs' absence in the past few months, but many believe it was because he was available for big decisions and also because Tim Cook was the hands-on manager, even when Jobs was there.
Jobs' death comes just a day following Cook’s first time launching Apple’s major products, when the iPhone 4S being unveiled. The iPhone 4S was a disappointment to many Apple lovers who were expecting the iPhone 5. News of Jobs’ death will come as another blow to the company, following initial criticism of its iPhone 4S release yesterday.
When clicking on Jobs' picture on Apple’s website, a message is written: “Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple.”
