Apple CEO Steve Jobs sent out a letter to all Apple employees to announce he will be taking a leave of absence to take care of his health. Steve promises to continue being involved in important strategic decisions of the company, but asks Tim Cook to take over for him.

The 55 year-old CEO also took a medical leave when he has a liver transplant in early 2009. Here is Steve Jobs’ official letter to Apple employees.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs today sent the following email to all Apple employees:

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

Steve Jobs will most probably return better than ever and with some very important news or new gadget.