On Monday, July 1st, it was revealed that Microsoft’s Xbox boss and President of the company’s Interactive Entertainment division, Don Mattrick, had left the software giant to become the CEO of Zynga. So who took his place at Microsoft? Well, Steve Ballmer did, for now.
Don Mattrick left the software giant after the company received negative backlash about the new Xbox One’s “always online” internet requirement and DRM policy. So while everyone is quick to blame Mattrick’s departure from Microsoft as the end-result of the Xbox One fiasco, one has to wonder, who is taking his place at Microsoft? Well, for now, no one new is being hired or promoted to that position. Instead, Steve Ballmer will “step up” and be the new Xbox chief for now.
In an email sent to Microsoft employees announcing Mattrick’s departure, Ballmer makes mention to his additional role. “Don’s directs will report to me and will continue to drive the day-to-day business as a team, particularly focused on shipping Xbox One this holiday,” Ballmer stated. Well, someone has to be in charge of the Xbox team as the new Xbox One is set for release in November.
Microsoft is planning a complete reorganization to become more of a devices and services company, so this is obviously a temporary thing until Ballmer is ready to utilize a suitable replacement to Mattrick. In the mean time, all hail Steve Ballmer as the man in charge of the Xbox!
Further reading: Steve Ballmer, Xbox One
