"Bill will continue to be an inspiration to all innovators," said Scott McNealy, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Sun Microsystems. "Bill's many contributions, including those to Java technology, SPARC, and Solaris Operating System, have helped define Sun as one of the most innovative and inspired places on the planet. We thank Bill for the strong legacy of innovation that he leaves in the hearts and souls of every Sun employee. He leaves behind an incredibly strong team of innovators."

"I am very proud of my accomplishments and the strong team we have built over the last two decades. I wish all those who continue at Sun great success in carrying on those things I have helped start, as well as all their other and future endeavors," said Joy. "For 21 years, I've enjoyed the opportunities for innovation provided to me at Sun, but I have decided the time is now right for me to move on to different challenges."

Joy, 48, said he has no immediate plans, except to not think about business too seriously for another year or two. When asked why he was leaving, Joy replied: "There is never a good time. Probably the better question is why I stayed so long. I didn't intend to stay at one company for so long."

• Bill Joy's Meditation Wall