Apple has confirmed that Steve Jobs has died at the age of 56. He stepped down as CEO of the company only a few months ago – he will be remembered for founding the company and changing personal computers forever, leaving then coming back and revolutionizing the Apple brand as a leader in consumer electronics between the iPod, App Store, iPhone and iPad.
“We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today,” said Apple’s Board of Directors in a statement. “Steve’s brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve.”
“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,” said Bill Gates, co-founder and chairman of longtime Apple competitor Microsoft. “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.”
A full recap of Jobs’ life and accomplishments can be read at computerworld.com.
