Last Wednesday marked the end of an era, as Steve Jobs submitted his letter of resignation from Apple. The news was shocking to most, and has many wondering what is in store for the notorious company. Steve Jobs, however, is not anticipating a risky future for Apple, but rather a very promising one. In his letter of resignation, Jobs wrote, “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.”
This year marked the 35th anniversary of Apple Inc., which Jobs cofounded alongside Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. Known for its innovation, Apple has inevitably affected the lives of millions worldwide. I remember my first purchase from Apple in 2008 – my Macbook. Three years have passed and I’m still amazed at the product’s inimitable capabilities, making the PC truly unable to compare to the Mac. In my twenty-one years of living, my Macbook is my second favorite purchase that I’ve ever made – second only to my iPhone. Out of curiosity, I asked my mom what she considers to be her favorite purchase of all time. Her answer? “The iPad – hands down.” Steve Jobs’ unique vision and extraordinary creativity have so obviously affected the lives of several generations, and that impact will continue on generations to come.
Tim Cook has been named Apple’s new CEO, as requested by Steve Jobs. It is without a doubt that Jobs’ relentless drive to success will inspire Cook to perform the same. “The Board has complete confidence that Tim is the right person to be our next CEO,” said Art Levinson, on behalf of Apple’s Board. “Tim’s 13 years of service to Apple have been marked by outstanding performance, and he has demonstrated remarkable talent and sound judgment in everything he does.”
Although Steve Jobs led Apple to an incredible amount of success, he did not do it single-handedly. There is, believe it or not, more to Apple than Steve Jobs, and Tim Cook has the experience necessary to maintain the company’s success. Steve Jobs created the Apple phenomenon, but it will inevitably continue to spread in years to come.