THE death of Apple’s co-founder Steve Jobs and the news an Essex secondary school has bought an iPad2 for each of its 1,200 pupils has thrust technology firmly in the spotlight.

If it wasn’t already obvious, Adrian Willis, joint founder of a company which creates applications for handheld devices, says we are in the grip of a mobile revolution.

His company, Black Fusion, is based on North Hill, Colchester.

It has created a number of iPhone apps, including for the pharmaceutical market, and is now developing one for the police and another to mentor people on how to be successful.

Its sex tips app, Better Sex, is out this week.

Mr Willis, 52, said: “I think we will look back in 20 years and actually see the world is in the grips of a mobile revolution.

“At the moment the iPhone means people can be effective in their business and work wherever they are.

“It’s just so convenient. People effectively work around the clock, while they’re on the move or even at home.

“It’s good for employers, who don’t want their staff to switch off, and employees who are looking to make a good impression and show off their ability.

“Of course, it also works the other way – people can take a couple of hours off in the afternoon because they are working so hard at other times.”

Schools are also investing in the technology.

The Gazette revealed last week that Honywood School, in Coggeshall, has given each of its 1,200 students an iPad2, which retail at about £400 each.

Mr Willis dismisses concerns it is an expensive gimmick, saying it could help improve pupils’ education.

He said: “It increases choice and enhances what they can do.

“It also means the kids can take home their homework and parents can monitor it and be confident it has been done.

“There’s no end to what you can do with apps and how useful they will be. It’s a more efficient way of working for everyone.”

Even though Steve Jobs, the brains behind the iPhone and iPad, died last week, Mr Willis believes the technology will continue to improve.

He said: “His demise was forecast some years ago and he and others had planned for it.

“It’s a team effort at Apple and it is one of the biggest companies in the world.

“The mobile revolution is under way. Kickstarting it was the crucial thing and now it will keep on moving forward.”