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
There has been no official news regarding his health, but commentators have gathered that Jobs' health could be the only factor to lead to today's news.
Love or hate Apple, and love or hate Jobs, he has truly been one of the most recognized, influential, and involved CEOs and inventors. It will be hard to imagine any person to rise to such fame being the figurehead for any company and the technology world will be different with his presence removed.