In a short statement Apple has announced that its founder and long-time CEO Steve Jobs has passed away.

"Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being," it read.

"Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple."

[source: Apple]