Apple chief executive Steve Jobs wrote in an e-mail to employees Monday that he is taking a new leave of absence from the technology company so that he can focus on his health.

Apple chief operating officer Tim Cook will be responsible for Apple’s day-to-day operations, Jobs wrote in his e-mail, according to the Dow Jones news service. Jobs said he would remain CEO of the gadgets and gizmos company, and he will remain involved in the company’s major strategic decisions.

The letter Jobs sent reads as 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

Jobs previously took a medical leave in 2009 and later disclosed that he had a liver transplant as part of his treatment for pancreatic cancer.

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(Source: Fox News)