Macworld cult gathering without iconic Apple leader

This year at Macworld marketing vice president Phil Schiller will replace Mr Jobs on stage Tuesday for a keynote presentation traditionally considered a Macworld highlight.Steve Jobs has given the Kyenote for macworld for the past 11 years.
Actually this is a huge event where many companies showcase their innovations and latest models of gadgets and other technology related stuff.
Attendance at last year's Macworld climbed to a record high of approximately 50,000 people as Apple's iPod MP3 players, internet-linked iPhones, and Macintosh computers gained popularity worldwide.
But people think that Apple's transformation from a core computer company to mainstream purveyor of consumer enclosed could be the reason behind its last appearance at Macworld.
Macworld is run by event management firm IDG, which vows that the show will go on without Apple. IDG is inviting this year's attendees to a "town hall" meeting to discuss how best to shape the gathering in 2010 and beyond.
"While there is no question that Macworld is going to evolve and change in 2010, the fundamental importance of the event remains the same," said Macworld vice president Paul Kent.