Steve Jobs Taking Medical Leave of Absence from Apple

Word is just popping out that Steve Jobs has requested a leave of absence from Apple to focus on his health. He will remain CEO and be involved in the strategic decision making of the company. COO Tim Cook will run the day to day operations the same way he did when Jobs was out for surgery and recovery two years ago.

The text of an email to Apple employees follows:

Team,

At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company.

I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for all of Apple’s day to day operations. I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011.

I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy.

Steve

if history is any indicator, don’t look for Apple or Jobs to give out further details on Jobs’ health condition any time soon.