Jobs to return to Apple Inc.

Apple Inc's good fortune through the U.S. recession should not be considered infallible, industry analysts said.

Apple said 54-year-old Chief Executive Officer Steve Jobs would return to work by the end of the month -- following a six-month medical leave of absence that included a liver transplant.

In his absence, Apple's stock values have risen 66 percent, the Los Angeles Times reported Monday.

But fortunes of the company could change despite selling 1 million third-generation iPhone within three days of its launch, analysts said.

"You can pick up a cell phone now $9.99," said Daniel Ernst at Hudson Square Research.

As consumers think twice over expensive purchases in an economic slump, "the economy remains their No. 1 challenge," Ernst said.

Similarly, in the computer sector, personal computer sales are falling, while netbook sales are on the rise.

"Apple has no answer to that," said IDC analyst Richard Shim, noting Apple laptops "start at $999."

In its favor, Apple has proved it can do well without its Jobs, its charismatic leader.

"If Jobs were to disappear permanently tomorrow, it wouldn't change this company one iota," Ernst said.

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