Microsoft CEO Nadella is supporter of Xbox brand, stresses Spencer

News by Dave Cook Contributor

Published on Feb. 5, 2014

Microsoft's Phil Spencer has stressed that new CEO Satya Nadella is a firm supported of the company's Xbox division, cooling fears that the company may cut off its gaming arm over time.

It follows claims that Microsoft CEO candidate Stephen Elop would consider releasing the Xbox brand if it was deemed 'non-essential' to the business.

Nadella was named Microsoft's new CEO yesterday, after a lengthy screening process saw several high-profile candidates weeded out. Spencer then discussed Nadella's promotion with gamers on Twitter.

He began:

Congrats to Satya Nadella on becoming new Microsoft CEO. Good leader, good guy and will be a great CEO.

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 4, 2014

@Delena4Ever999 Yes, I know Satya. He's been a good supporter of Studios and XBOX.

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 4, 2014

On rumours that Elop was poised to distance Microsoft from the Xbox brand Spencer added:

@MWayDanger I also know Stephen Elop well. Obviously he's currently still at Nokia but I feel great about the conversations we've had.

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 4, 2014

@wotsinaname Microsoft LT understands XBOX is a very important consumer brand for us.

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 4, 2014

He then suggested that free-to-play could play a big role in Xbox One down the line:

@BobFTW14 I agree. Want to support 360 first but obviously looking down the road at XB1.

— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) February 4, 2014

What do you feel Nadella's promotion will bring to the table? Could Microsoft ditch the Xbox Line one day? Let us know below.

Via DualShockers.

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