Overview
- Asha Sharma, formerly of Microsoft CoreAI, pledged 'no bad AI' and said Xbox would not be 'flooded with soulless AI slop,' calling games art crafted by humans.
- The Verge reports employees were alienated by the 'This is an Xbox' push tied to Bond, citing declining hardware revenue and a leadership desire for a turnaround.
- Matt Booty has been elevated to EVP and chief content officer, and Phil Spencer will advise during the transition after confirming his retirement.
- Sharma has engaged players directly on social media, acknowledged she has a lot to learn, and promised a 'return of Xbox' with a stronger console-focused identity.
- Original Xbox co-creator Seamus Blackley speculates the brand could be 'sunsetted' under an AI-first agenda, a view contrasted by Sharma’s stated plans as observers watch GDC and the next Xbox showcase for concrete moves.