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Thu, 6th Oct 2011
FYI, this story is more than a year old

Technology pioneers old and young have paid tribute to Steve Jobs, the iconic founder of Apple who passed away earlier today.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates:

"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.

"Steve and I 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 honour. I will miss Steve immensely.”

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg:

"Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend.

"Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.”

Google co-founder Sergey Brin: 

"From the earliest days of Google, whenever Larry and I sought inspiration for vision and leadership, we needed to look no farther than Cupertino.

"Steve, your passion for excellence is felt by anyone who has ever touched an Apple product (including the macbook I am writing this on right now). And I have witnessed it in person the few times we have met.

"On behalf of all of us at Google and more broadly in technology, you will be missed very much. My condolences to family, friends, and colleagues at Apple.”

Google co-founder Larry Page:

"I am very, very sad to hear the news about Steve. He was a great man with incredible achievements and amazing brilliance. 

"He always seemed to be able to say in very few words what you actually should have been thinking before you thought it.

"His focus on user experience above all else has always been an inspiration to me. He was very kind to reach out to me as I became CEO of Google and spend time offering his advice and knowledge even though he was not at all well.

"My thoughts and Google's are with his family and the whole Apple family.”