Sources at major suppliers to Apple, including Foxconn Electronics and Quanta Computer, believe that the resignation of Steve Jobs as CEO will have little impact on orders. Jobs' successor Tim Cook, before taking over the new post, was already responsible for manufacturing-related business, the sources claimed.
However, Jobs' departure should affect the company's brand recognition, and creativity and innovation, the sources said. It is only a matter of how deep the impact will be, depending on whether Apple manages to find another driver of innovation like Jobs for its continued success, the sources indicated.
Jobs' withdrawal also gives other consumer brands opportunity to catch up and rise, and consequently the industry will go through another fundamental reconfiguration, the sources speculated.
The sources identify Asia-based brands, such as HTC and Samsung, as potential competitors for Apple in the future.
Despite the speculation and many thoughts regarding post-Jobs Apple, the company has made it clear that Jobs "will continue to serve Apple with his unique insights, creativity and inspiration," in his new role as chairman.