Apple That

In a shocking and unexpected turn of events, Steve Jobs has decided to resign as CEO of Apple. Jobs, who has been battling an undisclosed medical illness for the past couple of months, has officially stepped down as the head of the world’s largest technological empire, Apple, the company he co-founded over 35 years ago.

In regards to his resignation, Jobs released a letter to everyone explaining his motives.

August 24, 2011 – To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:

“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.

I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.

As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.

I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.

I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you for all the many years of being able to work alongside you.”

Cook has been acting CEO for Apple ever since Jobs took an indefinite leave of absence from the company a while back due to medical issues, so he can manage the company and employees which is easier to do with software like check stub maker online. For those of you who remember, Jobs took a previous leave of absence whilst battling pancreatic cancer. Jobs has made appearances at certain events, showcasing some of the newest Apple products, like the iPad 2, but hasn’t done much else.

Many consumers, as well as investors, are worried about Apple no longer being under the direct direction of Jobs. However, Cook seems to have proven his worth in the last few months and Jobs would not have left him in charge if he himself didn’t have full confidence in his abilities and skills.

Needless to say, the next couple of months will be tough as well as crucial for both Apple and Cook as both have to prove that the company can survive despite the absence of Jobs. Nevertheless, my prayers for good luck and good health go out to Mr. Jobs. I hope that whatever ails him is something that he will be able to overcome.

Apple has partnered up with coffee superstar Starbucks to include giveaways of paid iPhone applications as part of the “Pick of the Week” promotional program. This program, as many of you may remember, offered iTunes songs to in-store customers at Starbucks.

Starbucks has tag-teamed with Apple for the “Pick of the Week” program since 2008. Since then, both companies have provided users with iTunes Music Store content via cards. However, those cards will now also offer free downloads of paid iOS applications.

The first application that was made available this week was Shazam Encore. This app typically goes for $5.99 in the Apple App Store so the fact that users can get it for free is a pretty sweet deal. Starbucks has yet to comment, however, on whether these free applications are replacing iTunes songs permanently or if both will be offered in the future.

In-store customers of Starbucks will be able to acquire free “Pick of the Week” cards at the register. These cards will contain codes redeemable in the App Store towards the purchase of iOS apps. The promotion previously allowed customers access to a free song every week with songs priced at $1.29. With the inclusion of Shazam Encore, the value for users has increased.

This promotion from Apple and Starbucks has brought coffee fanatics millions of free iTunes downloads as well as access to other in-store content. This dynamic duo began working together in 2007 when Starbucks began allowing customers to browse, search and freely preview millions of songs on the store’s WiFi connection.

The reason Shazam Encore may have been chosen as the first free app giveaway may be due to Shazam’s collaboration with Starbucks in the recent SRCH by Starbucks promotion. The contest consisted of a two-week scavenger hunt involving Lady Gaga. Customers had to identify one of her hit songs with their iPhone.

Starbucks also partnered with Apple last year, in addition to Yahoo, to offer digital content to in-store customers. Starbucks’ network allows customers exclusive access to free e-books, movies and music.

Source: Apple Insider – Apple, Starbucks team up to give away free iPhone Apps

Put your eye on the problem with Camera Security Now, installing security cameras since 1999. We install in the US and we can help you do it yourself.

Call us toll free 877-422-1907 between 8am EST and 5pm PST M-F. Talk to an expert about your serious security camera needs.