Inside Microsoft’s big Xbox leadership shake-up
The Verge
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Inside Microsoft’s leadership shake-up at Xbox, Asha Sharma has been appointed as Executive Vice President (EVP) and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, a role that many had not anticipated. Longtime Xbox fans and industry observers had speculated about the retirement of current CEO Phil Spencer for years, but few expected the simultaneous departure of Xbox president Sarah Bond, who was widely seen as Spencer’s likely successor. Instead of promoting Bond to the top position, Microsoft executives chose Sharma, a former AI leader at the company, signaling a shift in leadership strategy.
The decision to bypass Bond surprised many outside the company, as she had been viewed as Spencer’s natural deputy and a key player within the Xbox division. However, according to sources familiar with the situation, this outcome was not entirely unexpected internally. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and CFO Amy Hood reportedly favored Sharma for her technical expertise and strategic vision, which aligns with the company’s broader focus on AI integration into gaming and other areas.
Sharma’s appointment is a significant move in the tech industry, reflecting Microsoft’s emphasis on innovation and leadership in the gaming sector. Her background in AI and experience at Microsoft suggest that she will bring a fresh perspective to Xbox, potentially shaping its future direction. While Bond’s departure leaves questions about her role in the company’s future plans, Sharma’s elevation highlights Microsoft’s commitment to dynamic leadership and adaptability in the competitive consumer tech landscape.
This shake-up underscores the evolving nature of gaming within the tech industry. As Xbox competes with other major players like Sony and Nintendo, Microsoft’s strategic decisions will impact its ability to innovate and maintain a strong market presence. The appointment of Sharma signals that the company is prioritizing forward-thinking leadership over traditional succession patterns, which could have significant implications for the future of gaming.
Overall, Microsoft’s decision to elevate Asha Sharma to CEO of Xbox marks a pivotal moment in the company’s history. It not only reshapes the leadership
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/23/2026