Phil Spencer Exits Microsoft After 38 Years, New Gaming CEO Named
Microsoft's gaming chief Phil Spencer is retiring, replaced by AI division exec Asha Sharma as Xbox faces mounting challenges.
Phil Spencer is hanging up the controller. After 38 years at Microsoft, the longtime gaming boss is retiring from the company he helped shape into a console and cloud gaming giant.
Taking his place: Asha Sharma, currently president of product in Microsoft's Core AI business. She'll step into the newly titled role of CEO of gaming — a signal of how seriously Redmond takes its interactive entertainment division.
The leadership shakeup comes as Microsoft's Xbox business navigates increasing challenges. Spencer oversaw some of the company's biggest gaming moves, including the massive Activision Blizzard acquisition.
Sharma's background in AI product leadership is notable. Her appointment suggests Microsoft may be looking to weave artificial intelligence deeper into its gaming strategy as competition in the space intensifies.
Nearly four decades is a legendary run. Now it's someone else's game.