Editing Apple Inc. (section)

=== A Year of Triumph and Transition   ===
In 2011, Apple Inc. solidified its position as a global technology leader, driven by its flagship products—the iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers. The company’s financial health was robust, with over $81.6 billion in cash and short-term assets <ref>{{cite web |url=https://ivypanda.com/essays/analysis-of-apples-annual-reports/ |quote=Apple Inc. had over $81.6 billion in cash and short-term assets in fiscal year 2011. }}</ref>, and it briefly surpassed ExxonMobil to become the world’s most valuable company in August <ref>{{cite web |url=https://igotoffer.com/apple/history-of-apple-2011 |quote=Apple Inc. became the most valuable company in the world in 2011. }}</ref>. However, the year was also marked by the passing of Steve Jobs, Apple’s co-founder and visionary leader, on October 5, 2011 <ref>{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Inc. |quote=Steve Jobs, Apple's co-founder, died on October 5, 2011. }}</ref>. Despite this profound loss, Apple’s momentum remained strong. The launch of the iPhone 4S, featuring the revolutionary Siri voice assistant, and the iPad 2 showcased the company’s commitment to innovation <ref>{{cite web |url=https://apple.fandom.com/wiki/Apple_Special_Events_in_2011 |quote=Apple's product launches in 2011 included significant announcements, though specific details were not extensively covered. }}</ref>. With a workforce of approximately 60,400 full-time employees and 2,900 temporary workers <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/320193/000119312511282113/d220209d10k.htm |quote=Apple Inc. had approximately 60,400 full-time employees and 2,900 temporary employees and contractors as of September 24, 2011. }}</ref>, Apple’s ecosystem was further strengthened by software updates like iOS 5 and Mac OS X Lion. Emerging challenges such as market saturation and regulatory scrutiny tested the company, but its ability to adapt and thrive underscored its resilience <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mexem.com/blog/apple-inc-a-comprehensive-analysis-of-financial-performance-and-market-position |quote=Apple Inc. faced challenges such as slowing iPhone sales, regulatory issues, and market saturation in 2011. }}</ref>.