Microsoft Boss Dismisses Xbox Spin-Off Rumors
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
Satya Nadella, the leader of Microsoft, has firmly opposed the proposition put forward by investors and analysts that the Xbox division should be sold. At the Code Conference (as reported by The Verge), Nadella was directly queried about whether he intends to spin off Xbox. His resolute response was: “I have no intention to make any changes to Xbox from what we are currently doing.”
This statement comes after the remarks made by Microsoft’s founder, Bill Gates. Earlier this month, in an interview, Gates stated that he would “absolutely” back Nadella if he chose to spin off Xbox. When asked, “Would you support him if he wanted to spin off Xbox?” Gates replied without hesitation, “Absolutely.” However, Gates also mentioned that spinning off Xbox would not be an “obvious” decision due to Microsoft’s unified gaming strategy. “We are bringing PC gaming and Xbox gaming much closer together,” he said. “The power of the graphics chips enables the creation of excellent games. So, I’m certain that Satya and the team will carefully consider this. It’s their decision. We have an overall gaming strategy, and it’s not as straightforward as one might assume.”
Gates’ comment was interpreted as an indication that he believed Microsoft should spin off Xbox, which led the company to issue its own statement. The communications chief, Frank Shaw, informed Eurogamer that Gates’ comments “reflected his support for Satya as CEO”, and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Xbox. “As Mr. Gates noted, Microsoft is dedicated to gaming across multiple platforms, with Xbox as the core of our gaming strategy,” Shaw added. “We remain committed to Xbox and the millions of Xbox fans worldwide.”
Microsoft has been confronted with inquiries regarding a potential Xbox spin-off ever since it was reported that Stephen Elop, the former Nokia chief, had contemplated selling the division if he took over the company. However, after Nadella assumed the top position, the gaming business underwent a reorganization. As a result, Xbox, Xbox Live, and creative teams, including Xbox Music, Xbox Video, and Microsoft Studios, were consolidated under the control of Phil Spencer.
The Xbox One was launched in November 2013. Although it is selling at a faster pace than its predecessor, the Xbox 360, its sales are trailing behind Sony’s PlayStation 4. Earlier this month, Microsoft announced plans to sell the Xbox One without Kinect for £349, the same price as a PS4.
Microsoft is anticipated to make a strong push at the E3 trade show in June, where numerous high-profile projects will be unveiled as part of a renewed focus on hardcore gamers.
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