Steve Jobs resigns as Apple CEO

Steve Jobs has today resigned from his position as chief executive of Apple.

The news broke in a statement released by Jobs today. The Wall Street Journal published the statement in full.

"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.

Jobs went on to say that he would like to continue to serve as chairman of the board and director of Apple.

"I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it," he said.

"I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role."

Steve Jobs co-founded Apple in the 1970s with Steve Wozniak, and was fired from Apple in 1984. he was later re-hired as his new company, NeXT, was bought out by Apple.

He has served as CEO since 1997.

Jobs went on medical leave in January, but his illness was undisclosed. He had previously suffered from pancreatic cancer.

Jobs' second-in-command, Tim Cook, has been filling in for Jobs in his absence. WSJ reports that Cook will take up the chief executive role.

Minutes after Steve Jobs' resignation was announced, Apple's after hours trading dropped over 6%. Soon after it saw a slight recovery but is still down over 5%.

New Zealand company Renaissance, which owns the official Apple reseller chain YooBee, remained steady on $0.142 per share.