While the Xbox One has clearly taken a backseat to the juggernaut that is Sony’s PS4, don’t expect Microsoft to pull out of the console market anytime soon.
Rumors abound that their restructuring of many internal departments (and the inability of the Xbox One to overtake its PlayStation counterpart) would lead to a selling-off of the brand to another company. However, Phil Spencer recently dispelled that rumor as simply that; a rumor. “ In terms of Microsoft’s commitment in the gaming space, I know both Satya and Stephen Elop, I know them well. I’ve had explicit conversations with them about Microsoft’s commitment to Xbox–they’re extremely committed to Xbox. ” He says.
If you’re unaware, references to “ Satya and Elop ” refer to the two recently appointed high-level execs at Microsoft (CEO and Division Head respectively). Later in the interview, Spencer would call the current face-off between Microsoft and Sony a “ competitive battle , and continue to stamp out speculation that the company is on their way out of the gaming industry. “… they remain extremely committed to us succeeding with Xbox, which is nice to hear, right? It’s something that resonates well inside the walls when you’re talking to the teams, or when I stand in front of Xbox fans, I want to make sure that they understand we are extremely committed to this product .” Spencer assures.
Tune in tomorrow when I explore the possibilities of what an Xbox-less console market could really look like!