Xbox, a comprehensive video gaming brand owned by Microsoft, has a new CEO. Indian-origin Asha Sharma, in her first message as CEO of Microsoft Gaming, said, “Today I begin my role as CEO of Microsoft Gaming. I feel two things at once: humility and urgency. Humility because this team has built something extraordinary over decades. Urgency because gaming is in a period of rapid change, and we need to move with clarity and conviction.”

Microsoft’s chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced her appointment, saying she will report directly to him.

Sharma added that her first job was simple: “understand what makes this work and protect it”. She said Microsoft will “empower our studios, invest in iconic franchises, and back bold new ideas”.

Sharma’s journey in Microsoft began in 2024 as president of the Core AI Product. She is believed to have a background in scaling global consumer platforms and leading AI initiatives.

While discussing the growing role of AI and monetisation in gaming, Sharma said, “We will not chase short-term efficiency or flood our ecosystem with soulless AI slop. Games are and always will be art, crafted by humans, and created with the most innovative technology provided by us.”

Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer Matt Booty, who will be reporting to Sharma, said, “She asks questions, pushes for clarity, and wants our choices grounded in player and developer needs.” – editor@nrifocus.com