New York: Apple's iconic chief Steve Jobs, a survivor of pancreatic cancer, on Monday said he would be going on medical leave of absence.
"At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company," Jobs said in an e-mail to Apple employees.
This is the second time in as many years that Jobs, the architect behind Apple's success, is going on leave on health grounds.
56-year-old Jobs, the brain behind blockbuster products such as iPods, iPhones and iPads, was on medical leave in early 2009. Suffering from pancreatic cancer, he had a liver transplant during the period.
"I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy," Jobs said.
In his absence, Apple Chief Operating Officer Tim Cooks will be responsible for the company's day-to-day operations.
I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011," Jobs said.
One of the co-founders of Apple, Jobs was pushed out of the company in 1985. He made a comeback in 1997 and under his leadership, Apple has since become one of the most well-known brands as well as the most-valued technology company in the world, in terms of market capitalisation.
In a recent regulatory filing, Apple had said it maintains a comprehensive succession plan throughout the organisation.
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