BREAKING: Steve Jobs Has Passed Away 1955-2011
We have just found out moments ago via Bloomberg and the Associated Press that the man behind the iPhone revolution, Apple’s former CEO Steve Jobs, has passed away at the age of 56. Details are scarce at the moment but to say I’m in total shock would be an understatement. He had publicly been battling pancreatic cancer since 2004. Say what you will about his business practices, Steve was almost single-handedly responsible for pushing the entire mobile industry forward. RIP, Steve.
Update: Apple has released this statement on their website:
“Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being,” the company said in a statement. “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 an this spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple.”
Google co-founder Sergey Brin made this statement on his Google+ page:
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.
The other Google co-founder, Larry Page, also issued his condolences via his Google+ page:
I am very, very sad to hear the news about Steve. He was a great man with incredible achievements and amazing brilliance. He always seemed to be able to say in very few words what you actually should have been thinking before you thought it. His focus on the user experience above all else has always been an inspiration to me. He was very kind to reach out to me as I became CEO of Google and spend time offering his advice and knowledge even though he was not at all well. My thoughts and Google’s are with his family and the whole Apple family.
Before I go, I would like to post a truly moving speech given by Steve Jobs at Standford University’s Commencement Address back in 2005. “Love what you do.” (Steve enters the stage at 7:30)
If anyone would like to share your condolences, feel free to send an e-mail to rememberingsteve@apple.com
[Via Apple]