[jedc]

Completely agree. The truly big test for Apple would really come 12-18 months after Steve's departure, when the product development pipeline matures. If they're able to keep the same "magic" with or without Steve, then it proves that he built Apple's success into their culture.

[otto]

Historically that has not been the case though. In the short run it probably will not be much of an issue for Apple as there is not a huge shift in management.