Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs has passed away aged 56, just a day after the latest release of the iPhone 4S.
President Obama, Bill Gates, Sergey Brin and Mark Zuckerberg make statements.
Jobs arguably the most influential CEO of a generation died after a prolonged battle with cancer. The Apple homepage (pictured above) shows a black and white simple photograph of Jobs with the message “Steve Jobs 1955 – 2011”.
In an official statement Steve Jobs’s family said:
“Steve died peacefully today surrounded by his family.”
“In his public life, Steve was known as a visionary; in his private life, he cherished his family. We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness; a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.”
“We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve. We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.”
President Obama said:
“The world has lost a visionary. And there may be no greater tribute to Steve’s success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to Steve’s wife Laurene, his family, and all those who loved him.” (Full statement here.)
Microsoft founder and long time rival, Bill Gates said:
“Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives.”
“The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come. For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.”
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg said:
“Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.”
Google co-founder Sergey Brin said:
“From the earliest days of Google, whenever Larry and I sought inspiration for vision and leadership, we needed to look no farther than Cupertino. Steve, your passion for excellence is felt by anyone who has ever touched an Apple product (including the macbook I am writing this on right now). And I have witnessed it in person the few times we have met.”
“On behalf of all of us at Google and more broadly in technology, you will be missed very much. My condolences to family, friends, and colleagues at Apple.”
Official website: www.apple.com
