The rumors of Steve Jobs’ declining health have been rampant on the internet for quite some time. Most of it was thought to be speculation and at best, exaggerated. However, today Steve sent a note to Apple employees stating that he would be taking time away to tend to his “health issues”. In the meantime, Apple’s COO Tim Cook will serve as interim CEO.
Below is the email that Jobs sent to his team at Apple:
Team,
I am sure all of you saw my letter last week sharing something very personal with the Apple community. Unfortunately, the curiosity over my personal health continues to be a distraction not only for me and my family, but everyone else at Apple as well. In addition, during the past week I have learned that my health-related issues are more complex than I originally thought.
In order to take myself out of the limelight and focus on my health, and to allow everyone at Apple to focus on delivering extraordinary products, I have decided to take a medical leave of absence until the end of June.
I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for Apple’s day to day operations, and I know he and the rest of the executive management team will do a great job. As CEO, I plan to remain involved in major strategic decisions while I am out. Our board of directors fully supports this plan.
I look forward to seeing all of you this summer.
Steve
It seems impossible to think about a replacement for Steve Jobs, but even when Steve gets better, this latest issue will probably cause Apple to think long and hard about who his successor will be. Hopefully Steve Jobs will get the rest he needs and will be back in business by summer. Just in time for a product update! If you want to send Steve an audio get-well card, TUAW has arranged to take your call and will feature it on their podcast next week. Get better Steve!
