Key Takeaways
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- The new CEO, Asha Sharma, has confirmed that Xbox will refocus on console hardware and plans to update the next generation of consoles.
- Sharma emphasized Microsofts commitment to maintaining backward compatibility for most Xbox consoles since the 360.
- There may be a shift towards developing exclusive games for Xbox if it benefits the long-term strategy of the brand.
- Rumors suggest that the new Xbox generation will resemble a PC gaming rig, allowing consumers to access other virtual stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG instead of being limited to the Microsoft store.
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Amidst changes in Xbox brand management, the new CEO has announced upcoming news regarding the next generation of consoles. In a recent interview with Windows Central, CEO Asha Sharma affirmed her commitment to refocusing on hardware, particularly consoles, and hinted that updates are forthcoming. Sharma emphasized the company’s aim to continue protecting players’ investments, strongly suggesting that they will maintain the backward compatibility strategy seen in most Xbox consoles since the 360. Building upon this commitment to the Xbox ecosystem, Sharma also indicated that the brand might resume developing exclusive games for Xbox if studios indicate it would be beneficial in the long term. Since last year, rumors suggest the new Xbox generation will resemble a PC gaming rig, offering consumer freedom in game purchases. Instead of being limited to the Microsoft store, players might be able to access other virtual stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG. The Xbox ROG Ally, the portable console launched in partnership with Asus, already has an open environment that allows game purchases from different stores, potentially signaling a move toward greater platform flexibility.
New Xbox Leadership Shifts with Sharma’s Appointment as CEO, Spencer’s Retirement and Booty’s Promotion
These potential shifts in strategy coincide with changes in Xbox leadership. Sharma’s appointment as CEO follows Sarah Bond’s departure, the details of which have not been publicly released. Phil Spencer, a 38-year Microsoft veteran, is retiring completely in October 2026. Matt Booty has been promoted to Executive VP and Chief Content Officer of Xbox, reporting directly to Sharma. Sharma, who joined Microsoft two years ago as the Head of CoreAI, has now been named the CEO of Xbox. For more information and updates, follow the gaming drops channels on YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, TikTok, and Instagram. This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Portal Uai.
In Case You Missed It
As we wrap up our dive into gaming culture, don’t miss out on an exclusive peek behind the scenes of one of this year’s most anticipated games. Bruno Pferd takes us there in “Crimson Desert: English and Korean Actors Reveal Behind-the-Scenes of Their Work”, published February 26th, revealing insights straight from Alec Newman (Kliff), Stewart Scudamore (Oongka), and Rebecca Hanssen (Damiane). Meanwhile, Ahmed Hassan reports another major shift in the global TV industry; just months after Sony’s partnership with Skyworth, Panasonic has now joined forces with the Chinese manufacturer. This promises an interesting fusion of Japanese image processing expertise and Chinese industrial prowess, as detailed in “After Sony, it’s Panasonic’s turn…” Also making waves is Jonathan Dubinski’s latest post on Players for Life – in “Skate Studio, Full Light Announces Layoffs”, he delves into the recent turmoil at Full Light Studios, revealing plans for significant restructuring leading to layoffs amidst preparations for Season 3’s launch.