SAN FRANCISCO - The funeral for Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who died Wednesday at the age of 56, is taking place on Friday, US media reported.

The funeral is termed as a small private gathering, The Wall Street Journal quoted a person familiar with the matter as saying.

The source would not disclose where or when the event was taking place, citing respect for Jobs and his family's privacy.

Apple said it has no public services planned for Jobs. In an e- mail sent to Apple staff on Wednesday, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said "a celebration of Steve's extraordinary life" would be held soon for employees.

On its website, Apple has encouraged people to send their memories and condolence to a special e-mail address.

Meanwhile, online magazine deadling.com reported Friday that Sony Pictures is making a hefty deal to acquire feature rights to "Steve Jobs," the only authorized biography of the Apple co- founder which will be published on October 24.