Reports from several credible news sources bring sad news : Apple founder and visionary Steve Jobs, left us at the age of 56. The charismatic tech visionary left behind substantial legacies in both the computing and entertainment industries.
Jobs had recently been battling pancreatic cancer. Though no official cause of death has been issued, complications due to the disease are likely the cause. Jobs had resigned his position at Apple, citing that he was no longer able to meet his duties at the company.
Jobs will be remembered as one of the most important men in the history of the U.S. computer and tech industries. Along with Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne, Jobs founded Apple in 1976. The company did much to popularize the home computer, particularly the Apple II, which debuted in 1977. It revolutionized the space with the Macintosh’s point-and-click interface. Most recently, the company has been riding high on a series of revolutionary products, the iPod, iPhone, and iPad — all of which were shepherded by Jobs.
Jobs also helped make Pixar a Hollywood juggernaut, serving at its CEO and eventually sitting on the board of the Walt Disney Company.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates joined an outpouring of tributes to Steve Jobs, calling the Apple co-founder a competitor and friend.
“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,” said Gates.
Gates was joined by political, technology, entertainment and business leaders from around the world in paying tribute to Jobs.
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of social networking site Facebook, called Jobs a mentor and a friend.
“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,” he said.
His vision and passion for technology will be sorely missed.
Apple released an official statement on his passing:
“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.”
If you’d like to share your thoughts about Jobs legacy or simply offer condolences, Apple encourages you to send an e-mail to [email protected].
R.I.P. Steven Paul Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011) – thank you for your innovative mind.