06/10/2011 11:57
Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, dies
Steve Jobs, the innovative co-founder of Apple who transformed personal use of technology as well as entire industries with products such as the iPod, iPad, iPhone, Macintosh computer and the iTunes music store, has died. The Apple chairman was 56, the ABC reports.
Jobs had suffered from health problems since surgery for a rare form of pancreatic cancer in 2004. He underwent a liver transplant in 2009 but returned to work. He took a leave of absence last January, his third since his health problems started, but he announced in August he was stepping down as Apple's chief executive. He stayed on as chairman of the board.
The iconic American CEO, whose impact many have compared to auto magnate Henry Ford and Walt Disney— whom Jobs openly admired — abruptly stepped down from his position as CEO of Apple in August because of health concerns. He had been suffering from pancreatic cancer.
"Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being," read a statement on Apple's website.
"Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor," abcnews reports.