# Microsoft Gaming

**Type:** Organization (Microsoft division)
**Status:** Active
**Domain:** Entertainment (gaming)

## Overview
Microsoft Gaming is Microsoft's gaming division, encompassing Xbox hardware, Game Pass subscription service, and game development studios.

## Leadership
- **Phil Spencer** — CEO (2014-2026), transitioned to advisory role
- **Sarah Bond** — Xbox President (departed February 2026)
- **Asha Sharma** — CEO (February 2026-present), former Instacart and Meta executive, previously led Microsoft Copilot

## Strategic Position
In February 2026, incoming CEO Asha Sharma made an explicit commitment to prioritize human creativity over AI-generated content, stating the company would "not chase short-term efficiency or flood our ecosystem with soulless AI slop." Notably, Sharma comes from Microsoft's AI division, making this an AI expert's assessment rather than anti-AI positioning.

## Timeline
- **2014** — Phil Spencer becomes Microsoft Gaming CEO
- **Fall 2025** — Spencer tells Nadella he is contemplating stepping back
- **2026-02-21** — Leadership transition announced: Asha Sharma named CEO, Spencer and Bond departing; Sharma pledges no "soulless AI slop"