Microsoft boss Bill Gates said his "profound impact" would " be felt for many generations to come". Adding, "For those of us lucky enough to get to work with him, it's been an insanely great honour. I will miss Steve immensely."

US President Barack Obama also paid tribute: "Michelle and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Jobs. Steve was among the greatest of American innovators - brave enough to think differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world, and talented enough to do it."

And New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said that "America lost a genius who will be remembered with Edison and Einstein, and whose ideas will shape the world for generations to come".

He will be sorely missed.