Steve Jobs resigns as CEO of Apple

Tech genius Steve Jobs, the man who revolutionised the way millions of people communicate with mobile phones and listen to music, has stepped down as chief executive of Apple Inc.

The 56-year-old has taken the decision because he feels he can no longer handle the job but will continue to be involved in a leadership role with the company.

“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,’’ Jobs wrote in his resignation letter. “Unfortunately, that day has come.’’

The brilliant mind behind the iPhone, iPad and other smart devices will be a major loss to Apple but it appears the primary reason for Jobs’ resignation is because of the result of an unspecified medical condition for which he took a leave from his post in January.

Tim Cook, Apple’s chief operating officer, was named as his successor as the head of the company.

Tributes and praise for Jobs’ accomplishments since he co-founded the company in his garage 35 years ago have been well documented.

Trip Chowdhry, an analyst with Global Equities Research, said Mr Jobs’ maniacal attention to detail is what set Apple apart.

“Apple is Steve Jobs, Steve Jobs is Apple, and Steve Jobs is innovation,” Mr Chowdhry said.