How Macworld Survive With Steve’s Absence

 The news of the absence of our favorite, black turtleneck wearing CEO at this year’s MacWorld event is certainly well known by now. However, it is not known why he or Apple has decided to make this decision, especially with only about three weeks left until this year’s event. It certainly came as a shock to most Apple fans out there.

The news sent the company’s stock downward, and raised questions about whether Mr. Jobs had new health problems or some new products were not ready.

Like many of you, my first thoughts immediately (and quite unfortunately) went to Mr. Jobs’ health. After appearing thinner than usual at the WWDC in June, speculation skyrocketed with rumors of his cancer returning. In my opinion, the notion that Jobs would not be speaking due to health were significantly lessened with announcement of 2009 being Apple’s last year appearing at Macworld.

As always, John Gruber has a poignant thought that somehow makes me feel a bit better about it all:

It’s not that Steve Jobs is fearless, but rather that he’s afraid of not changing. Where other CEOs can’t bring themselves to do something different, Jobs can’t bring himself to keep doing the same thing.

But another question is likely to persist after the debate dies down: How well could Apple keep up the pace of new products without its iconic chief executive?

You can also read the following related articles:

• Business - Why Is Steve Jobs Skipping MacWorld?
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