Apple co-founder Steve Jobs dies of cancer at 56
Apple Chief Executive Officer Steve Jobs holds the new " iPad" during the launch of Apple's new tablet computing device in San Francisco, California, January 27, 2010. He died on October 5, 2011. Photo/REUTERS
Former chief executive and co-founder of US technology giant Apple Steve Jobs has died, the company says. He was 56.
He is known for introducing the colourful iMac computer, the iPod and the iPhone to the world, before later creating a new class of gadgets with the iPad. He was 21-years-old when he co-founded Apple.
His death, announced late Wednesday US time, came just a day after Apple unveiled its latest iPhone 4S model to mixed reviews.
Mr Jobs had a rare form of pancreatic cancer called pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer, which produces islet cell or neuroendocrine tumours.
"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," Apple said.
Mr Jobs announced that he had cancer in 2004 and has been in and out of public view since then, during which time he had a liver transplant. In 2009 he took a six-month break from Apple (READ: Investors fear Jobs-less Apple).
In January, 2011, he took medical leave, before resigning as CEO in August and handing over his duties to Tim Cook (READ: Apple's Jobs taking another medical leave and Steve Jobs surrenders reins as Apple thrives).
Microsoft boss Bill Gates said Jobs' "profound impact" would " be felt for many generations to come".
Mr Gates added: "For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it's been an insanely great honour. I will miss Steve immensely."
US President Barack Obama also paid tribute: "Michelle and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Jobs.
"Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it."
