Apple has announced that Steve Jobs has died. The Apple co-founder was 56.

Apple released this statement: “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.”

Jobs had been fighting pancreatic cancer since 2003 and stepped down from his position as CEO in August.

Apple is encouraging people to share their condolences and memories to the email address rememberingsteve@apple.com.

UPDATE: Bill Gates tweeted: “Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to Steve Jobs’ family & friends. The world rarely sees someone who made such a profound impact.”