Tim Cook's Emotional Tribute To Mentor And Friend: Honoring Steve Jobs, 'A Visionary Who Changed The World'

On the 12th anniversary of Steve Jobs’ passing, Apple Inc. AAPL CEO Tim Cook took to X, formerly Twitter, and paid an emotional tribute to his mentor and friend.

What Happened: “Thinking back on a pioneer who challenged conventions, a visionary who changed the world, a mentor, and a friend. We miss you, Steve,” Cook posted on X, along with a portrait image of Apple’s co-founder. 

Thinking back on a pioneer who challenged conventions, a visionary who changed the world, a mentor, and a friend. We miss you, Steve. pic.twitter.com/rKn6mBHecI

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) October 5, 2023

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Jobs, who passed away at the age of 56 in 2011, left an indelible mark on the technology industry. His battle with pancreatic cancer, which spanned several years, did not deter him from transforming Apple into one of the most influential and innovative companies globally.

In August 2011, just six weeks before his unfortunate demise, Jobs stepped down as Apple’s CEO, marking the end of an era. 

“I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come,” Jobs said at the time. 

Cook, who had been managing the company during Jobs’ medical leaves, assumed the role of CEO. Although, Jobs’ resignation did not diminish his influence on Apple’s trajectory.

Jobs’ tenure at Apple witnessed several notable innovations, including the introduction of the iPod and the iTunes Store in 2001, that changed how people consumed music. 

However, it was the iconic iPhone launched in 2007 that solidified Jobs’ status as a tech visionary, reshaping the smartphone industry and overshadowing competitors like Nokia and BlackBerry.

Cook, who joined Apple in 1998 and succeeded Jobs as CEO in 2011, previously attributed much of his dedication to Apple to Jobs’ profound influence. Cook admired Jobs’ commitment to a greater purpose beyond just creating successful products or businesses. 

It is worth noting that the Apple CEO offered a piece of his liver to Jobs and even took the initiative to undergo blood tests. However, Jobs vehemently declined the offer.

“‘He cut me off at the legs, almost before the words were out of my mouth,” Cook said. ‘No,’ he said. ‘I’ll never let you do that. I’ll never do that.'”

Jobs’ ability to focus on essential pursuits and his dedication to leaving the world better than he found it continues to inspire Cook and drive innovation at Apple.

Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

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