Apple says Steve Jobs has died

Apple has announced the company’s co-founder Steve Jobs died Wednesday night.

He was 56 years old. No specific cause has been given for his death.

Jobs had battled cancer in 2004 and underwent a liver transplant in 2009 after taking a leave of absence for unspecified health problems. He took another leave of absence in January – his third since his health problems began – before resigning as CEO six weeks ago. Jobs became Apple’s chairman and handed the CEO job over to his hand-picked successor, Tim Cook.

“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,” the company said in a brief statement.

“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.”

In turn, Jobs’ family also issued a statement. He is survived by his wife Laurene and his four children.

“Steve died peacefully today surrounded by his family. In his public life, Steve was known as a visionary; in his private life, he cherished his family. We are thankful to the many people who have shared their wishes and prayers during the last year of Steve’s illness; a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories. We are grateful for the support and kindness of those who share our feelings for Steve. We know many of you will mourn with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.”

Meanwhile, reaction to Jobs’ death has been pouring in.

“For those of us lucky enough to get to work with Steve, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely,” Microsoft chairman Bill Gates tweeted.

Even U.S. President Barack Obama tweeted his thoughts.

“There may be no greater tribute to Steve’s success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented.”

“Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you,” said Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

“Steve Jobs was one of the greatest innovators of our time. He revolutionized how we consume entertainment, access information and stay in touch by making iconic devices that are brilliantly designed, intuitive and easy to use. He had a clear vision for what technology should deliver to consumers and his focus on the customer was relentless. He will be sorely missed,” said Nadir Mohamed, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rogers Communications in a statement.

“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, his friends and to all the employees at Apple.”

Jobs co-founded Apple in 1976 with Steve Wozniak.

Click the video to view Jobs’ famous 2005 Stanford commencement address.

With files from The Associated Press