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Tributes pour in for Steve Jobs

Tributes have been pouring in from around the world after Apple announced its co-founder Steve Jobs had passed away at the age of 56.

Apple's website has been taken over by a picture of the man who built their company.

The website states: "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' family said in a statement that while he was known as a visionary in his public life, "in his private life, he cherished his family".

His long-time business rival, Bill Gates, has released a statement, saying it had been "an insanely great honour" working with the Apple co-founder.

"I'm truly saddened to learn of Steve Jobs' death. Melinda and I extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, and to everyone Steve has touched through his work," Gates said.

"Steve and I first met nearly 30 years ago, and have been colleagues, competitors and friends over the course of more than half our lives.

"The world rarely sees someone who has had the profound impact Steve has had, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come.

"For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it’s been an insanely great honor. I will miss Steve immensely."

Numerous messages have also popped up on Twitter, with many expressing their sadness that Jobs had lost his battle with pancreatic cancer.

"Jobs has made what I do possible in many ways. He was one of the most innovative minds of my time and an ethical businessman. RIP Steve," said one person.

"His legacy is evident in the fact that so many of us around the world are receiving and sharing this news on devices he pioneered," said another.

Film website Rotten Tomatoes expressed its gratitude towards a man they called a visionary.

"He referenced Rotten Tomatoes in our infancy during keynotes, giving us exposure we're eternally grateful for."

Many famous faces have also used their Twitter accounts to share their condolences.

"Rest in peace, Steve Jobs. From all of us at #Obama2012, thank you for the work you make possible every day - including ours." - Barack Obama's official Twitter account

"Devastated 2 hear about the passing of Steve Jobs. Was blessed 2 have the opportunity to spend time w/ him on several occasions. May he RIP" - Lance Armstrong

"Steve lived the California Dream every day of his life and he changed the world and inspired all of us #ThankYouSteve" - '''Arnold Schwarzenegger
'''

"I'm going to turn off my Apple computer, iPhone and iPad tonight at 8pm and honour Steve with a moment of digital silence. Will you join me?" - Maria Shriver

"Steve Jobs was the man" - Tony Hawk

"As I type on my iPhone, tears spring 2 my eyes 4 an amazing Man I never met. His genius has touched us all. Steve Jobs, you will b/with us 4ever" - Tyra Banks

"Rest in peace, Steve Jobs. Your genius will live on for generations to come..." – Neil Patrick Harris

"Our parents had JFK, we had Steve Jobs. Edison gave us electricity, Jobs gave us the Jetsons in real life. We lost an icon today. Mourn him." - Kevin Smith

"Wow Steve Jobs died! He was a brilliant man!" – Kim Kardashian

"Rest in peace, Steve Jobs. You were always a big part of my world with your special inventions. Thank you for your brain" – Alyssa Milano

"RIP Steve Jobs. True legend." – Pete Wentz

"R.I.P. to one of the greatest visionaries of our time" - Perez Hilton

Jobs' family says a website will be provided for those who wish to offer tributes and memories.