Apple founder Steve Jobs passes away at age 56.

Apple founder Steve Jobs passed away today at the age of 56. Here is the statement Apple released regarding Steve Jobs' passing.

"We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today. Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve."

We reported in August that Steve Jobs stepped down as Apple CEO due to health concerns. Steve Jobs also served as CEO of Pixar Animation Studios, and was a part owner of Walt Disney Studios. Disney CEO/president Bob Iger released the following statement.

"Steve Jobs was a great friend as well as a trusted advisor. His legacy will extend far beyond the products he created or the businesses he built. It will be the millions of people he inspired, the lives he changed, and the culture he defined. Steve was such an 'original,' with a thoroughly creative, imaginative mind that defined an era. Despite all he accomplished, it feels like he was just getting started. With his passing the world has lost a rare original, Disney has lost a member of our family, and I have lost a great friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Laurene and his children during this difficult time."

Steve Jobs' cause of death was due to pancreatic cancer which revealed itself in mid-2004.