Steve Jobs dies at 56

The Apple founder has passed away after losing an eight-year battle with pancreatic cancer

Apple founder Steve Jobs has died at the age of 56, after losing an eight-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

The technology visionary’s death came just six weeks after he stepped down as the CEO of Apple – which launched the new generation iPhone 4S yesterday.

'We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today,' a statement from Apple’s board of directors read.

'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.'

Apple’s home page has today been dedicated to Jobs, with a full-page picture, and statement beginning: 'Steve Jobs 1955-2011. Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being.'

Already a tributes – led by Barack Obama – have been pouring in.

‘The world has lost a visionary,' the American President said in a statement. 'And there may be no greater tribute to Steve’s success than the fact that much of the world learned of his passing on a device he invented.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates wrote: ‘For those of us lucky enough to get to work with Steve, it's been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely,’ while Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg added: ‘Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.’

Overnight fans gathered at Apple stores around the world to leave flowers, candles and cards.

Jobs leaves behind a wife, son and two daughters.