Steve Jobs, the legendary co-founder of Apple, maker of the iconic Macintosh computer, the iPhone and the iPad, resigned as the company's chief executive Wednesday.
Jobs gave no specific reason, but his departure has been anticipated for some time as deep health problems have prevented him from working full-time in recent years.
Here is the text of 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."
{{/usCountry}}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."
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