Written By: David Bakhshaee, News Editor
The driving force and one of the most influential and brilliant minds in the world of technology and marketing, Steve Jobs, is dead at age 56. Steve Jobs was the chairman, co-founder, and former chief executive officer of Apple Inc., one of the most successful tech companies in modern history.
Born February 24, 1955, Jobs co-founded Apple in a Silicon Valley garage, and from then on pioneered the personal computer, developed the iPod, iPhone, and most recently, the iPad. These devices completely revolutionized how consumers interact with the internet, and allow users to obtain various forms of entertainment such as music and movies.
“Steve’s brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives,” Apple said in a statement. “The world is immeasurably better because of Steve.”
Jobs’ death was anything but unexpected. Jobs had been battling pancreatic cancer for years, having taken a medical leave of absence in January, followed by his resignation of chief executive officer back in August.
Back in 2009, Jobs underwent a liver transplant however continued to release one sensational product after another. Jobs’ unique innovation style and sheer brilliance catapulted Apple, despite a tumultuous economic environment.
Building on a simplistic yet sophisticated design, Jobs released the iPod in 2001, a product that has become as ubiquitous as the wrist watch. Following the iPod was the iPhone in 2007. The iPhone refashioned the relevance of a cellular phone by allowing users to download “apps” which enabled them to use social networking sites, play games, manage schedules, or even manage money.
Most recently, Jobs released the touchscreen iPad. Despite market analysts’ warning that no one actually needed the device, Jobs’ stupefying design and marketing skills coupled with his faithful and unwavering fan base catapulted the device into being a success.
By 2011, Apple was not only a powerhouse in the gadget and technology world, but was one of the largest companies by market value in the United States.
Although the world has lost its modern day Thomas Edison, there is no doubt that Jobs’ momentous legacy will forever live on and be seen in future gadgets and technology.
Jobs passing had me fondly remembering my years at the Mace in the early 1990s, when we bought our first Macs. They fundamentally changed the way we put the paper together and how it looked, and then he continued to put out more and more game-changing devices. An amazing mind, amazing person. ~ Rich, class of ’93