14 DAY TRIAL // It’s now clear that Steve Jobs only stepped down from the position of Apple Chief Executive Officer when he was extremely close to the end, which shows immense dedication and love for the company he co-founded.
News of Jobs’ death is circling the globe today, and many mourn the visionary that built and then revived Apple, including old time rivals and competitors.
Among them Microsoft co-founder and chairman Bill Gates, who expressed condolences over Steve’s passing. Here is the message that Gates shared with the world:
“I’m truly saddened to learn of Steve Jobs’ death. Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to everyone Steve has touched through his work.
Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives.
The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come.
For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely.” (according to thegatesnotes)
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer offered a similar message on behalf of the Redmond company:
“I want to express my deepest condolences at the passing of Steve Jobs, one of the founders of our industry and a true visionary. My heart goes out to his family, everyone at Apple and everyone who has been touched by his work,” Ballmer said.
Truth be told, with his work at Apple, Jobs also managed to touch Microsoft in more ways than one. The software giant is at its best when going against a formidable competitor, and the rivalry with Apple, along with the Cupertino-based company’s successes, certainly served to motivate Microsoft to deliver superior products.