GoKawiilMicrosoft's Xbox chief Asha Sharma denies any plan to sell gaming division
In an interview with The New York Times, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma stated plainly that 'Xbox is not for sale,' adding that Microsoft will pursue whatever partnerships or operating model changes are needed for long-term success. The comments follow a summer of heavy layoffs across Xbox, including the closure of Ninja Theory, the divestment of Double Fine, and the shutdown of Halo Studios with the franchise handed to Call of Duty's team.
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The denial comes amid visible restructuring that could otherwise fuel speculation about Microsoft exiting gaming, so Sharma's statement seems aimed at reassuring employees, partners and fans rather than shareholders. Some observers, as reflected in the NYT's skeptical framing, suggest such statements can be read as corporate reassurance rather than a firm guarantee, especially since Xbox hardware has historically been a low-margin business that nonetheless drives brand loyalty benefiting Microsoft's cloud ambitions. Whether the restructuring stabilizes Xbox or represents a slower wind-down remains to be seen.
- Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told the NYT that Xbox is not for sale and Microsoft plans a long-term approach.
- Recent layoffs have hit Xbox studios hard, including Ninja Theory's closure, Double Fine's divestment, and Halo Studios' shutdown.
- Satya Nadella has previously noted Xbox's brand value benefits Microsoft's broader business, like Azure, despite thin gaming margins.
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Published there as: “'Xbox Is Not For Sale,' Says Microsoft's Gaming Chief”
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