Tech World Shock: Steve Jobs CEO of Apple Resigns

Announced this afternoon in Cupertino, CA., Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple with Steve Wozniak, has resigned, passing his role of CEO to Tim Cook, the COO of Apple.

His letter of resignation:

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

This step-down by Steve himself has caused many Apple-fan-based websites to go nuts about the future of the company. Many believe the reason for this is due to his health problems, which could be a part of this because of his three medical leaves in the past few years. Although he is removing the title of CEO from his name, he will still deliver product and event keynotes, such as for the next iPhone. He will also take on the position as a chairman for the company's big decisions.

Tim Cook has very big shoes to fill.

Stay tuned to see what Apple's future will hold.