Steve Jobs stands down as CEO of Apple Computer

Breaking news is that Steve Jobs, CEO and co-founder of Apple Computer, has resigned his post.

Press reports are citing his resignation letter,

To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:

I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.

I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.

As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.

I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.

I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.

Steve

Steve Jobs, diagnosed and treated for pancreatic cancer in 2004 has been on medical leave since January. Reports are that he will continue to be involved in product design (this is perhaps the ‘new role’ he refers to in his resignation letter).

Further reports and commentary can be found at at the Wall Street Journal and  ArsTechnica.

Readers are welcome to share there thoughts.

(Updated to add links below.)

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