Apple visionary Steve Jobs dies aged 56

The Silicon Valley legend stepped down in August as chief executive of the company he helped set up in 1976, citing illness. He had been battling a form of pancreatic cancer, and had received a liver transplant in 2009. Jobs wrote in his letter of resignation: "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." The announcement marks a sad day for Apple and the tech industry itself. Jobs is widely seen as the creative force that has driven Apple to become one of the world's biggest companies. In a statement issued today, Apple said: "Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve." US President Barack Obama also paid tribute to Jobs, stating that the world had 'lost a visionary'. He said: "Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it." The full letter released by Apple's board is below: We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today. Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve. His greatest love was for his wife, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts.