The Apple Chronicles

And so, he bids farewell. Apple’s great visionary and one of the geniuses of this century who heralded a whole new era of all things ‘i’, Steve Jobs, has stepped down from assuming an active role in the company’s activities. It wasn’t a terribly shocking piece of news; Jobs’ resignation as CEO was foreseen ever since news about his ailing health spread in January. But it is indeed saddening.

It is interesting to see how his decision will impact Apple’s brand image, which, incidentally, briefly surpassed Exxon Mobil as the world’ most valuable company in August. His departure made front page news on all major publications and newswires across the world (rightly so, may I add). Initial reactions ranged from panic regarding Apple’s future, prompting a drop in its share prices to a quiet resignation and renewed interest in Tim Cook, who replaces him.  Everyone had something to say, whether they were a tech journalist, a consumer, or a mere bystander watching a global and historical moment unfold in the field of technology.

The debates that raged across social media networks (especially Twitter, where this was the number one trending topic for the last 24 hours) have leaned towards being conspiracy theories to sentimental fallacies.  PCWorld has produced an amazing infographic providing greater insight into the conversation trends. Oddly enough, the concluding one as of the moment seems to be a steady stream of ‘i’ jokes –  from ‘iQuit’ to the ‘iFamily’s’ loss.

Apple fans rallied stoically, hailing Jobs and fore-seeing Apple continuing its dominance. Journalists remain cautious and mostly wait to see what will happen with the company, with some drawing comparisons to Microsoft after its founder Bill Gates left. What, however, touched me the most and pays true testimony to the man who has indeed accomplished a mighty job was his sworn rival’s praise -Google’s Eric Schmidt offered a brilliantly appreciative statement in response to Jobs’ resignation, creating a very positive atmosphere regarding the whole situation. Indeed, this places a very positive seal on this story and the Apple brand, regardless of what may or may not happen in the company’s future.