We all knew that the day would come when Steve Jobs would step down as God, er, excuse me, CEO of Apple, but still finally seeing the headline was a shock.

Letter from Steve Jobs

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 

As the letter states Jobs plan to maintain a role with the company and there is no doubt that Apple will continue to benefit from his vision and leadership in the coming years. However, as Tim Cook takes on the CEO role permanently, you can’t help but wonder what the future will hold . . .