Legendary Apple boss Steve Jobs passes away aged 56

Apple has confirmed that founder and long-time CEO Steve Jobs has passed away after a long battle with cancer.

In a post on the company's website, Apple confirmed Jobs death but gave few details.

"Apple has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being.

"Those of us who have been fortunate enough to know and work with Steve have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor. Steve leaves behind a company that only he could have built, and his spirit will forever be the foundation of Apple."

An Apple press release posted by Business Insider reports the vionary passed away today, debunking earlier reports related to a September 9 rumour of his demise.

Jobs resigned from the role of CEO in late August, replaced by former COO Tim Cook, just weeks before his passing, and made no appearance during a press event this week to announce the iPhone 4S.

Jobs was at Apple's helm when the company transformed itself from a dangerously obscure computing alternative into a cultural force; under his guidance, Apple produced the first iPod, changing not only the music industry but paving the way for the worlds of digital distribution and mobile gaming.

The games industry would be a very different place without Jobs's contributions. He is sure to be sorely missed as we meet the challenges of the new digital world.