What a sad, sad day folks. One of the great technology visionaries of our time have passed away. Steve Jobs was one of the co-founders of Apple, who started the business out of a garage in Silicon Valley. In his early 30’s he was already one running one of the most powerful computer companies, and after a few turbulent years, Apple has grown to become the most valuable company on earth.
This is the man who was responsible to bring everyday things we take for granted into our lives – his company was first to ship with a mouse and the first mass produced personal computer running a graphical user interface. And recently he basically shifted the entire smartphone industry through the launch of the iPhone and the follow up tablet, the iPad.
The statement on Apple.com says it best:
As one of the posters at his already forming vigil in New York put it:
Keep Thinking Different.
Update – Tim Cook’s email to all Apple staff:
Team,
I have some very sad news to share with all of you. Steve passed away earlier today.
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.
We are planning a celebration of Steve‘s extraordinary life for Apple employees that will take place soon. If you would like to share your thoughts, memories and condolences in the interim, you can simply email rememberingsteve@apple.com.
No words can adequately express our sadness at Steve‘s death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. We will honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much.
Tim
