It has been announced that Apple CEO Steve Jobs has resigned from his position, and current Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook will be his successor.  Mr. Cook has been looking after the day-to-day business of the company since Steve Jobs took a leave of absence back in January.

In a letter to the company’s Board of Directors, Steve Jobs said that ‘if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know.  Unfortunately, that day has come’.

He continued to say that he would like to stay on as Chairman of the Board, director and an Apple employee, provided the board agreed; which rather unsurprisingly, they did.  Apple has sent out a press release announcing the changeover, taking the chance to recognize Steve Jobs’ ‘extraordinary vision and leadership’.

Before signing off, Steve Jobs says in his resignation letter:

“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.”

It’s going to be very interesting to see where Apple goes from here, and how the market deals with the changeover everyone knew would come, but didn’t know when.  Tim Cook has an extensive history with Apple, and it has been quite safe in his hands so far; but Steve Jobs has always been more than just a CEO.  Will Tim take Apple in a new direction, or will the Board keep a steady hand on the tiller?

Whatever happens with the company, we wish Steve Jobs all the best.

(via MacStories)