In a rather interesting development to those who regularly follow MACWORLD Expos, Apple has announced that Steve Jobs will deliver the keynote for the event on Monday January 7. Thatis the day before the Expo officially opens and contrary to every Expo keynote that Steve Jobs has delivered since his return to Apple. From Apple:

Apple and IDG World Expo today announced that Steve Jobs, Appleis CEO, will kick off Macworld Conference & Expo/San Francisco 2002 with the opening keynote presentation on Monday, January 7, 2002 at 9:00 a.m. Macworld will be held at San Franciscois Moscone Center, January 7-11, 2002.

"Weire working hard to make this Januaryis Macworld the most exciting ever," said Steve Jobs, Appleis CEO. "Attendance hit new records at Macworld in July, and weire hoping to break the record this January too."

"Steveis keynote is a great way to start what will be a very exciting and informative week for all Macworld attendees," said Charlie Greco, president and CEO of IDG World Expo. "Weire thrilled to move the keynote up to Monday, and begin the excitement a day sooner."

You can find more information (link corrected) on the keynote at the MACWORLD Expo Web site.