Microsoft preparing for device and service-led restructure - rumour

Microsoft is believed to be preparing for a major restructure that will see it shift focus to devices and services.

Wall Street Journal site AllThingsD reports that sources close to the matter have stated that Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is currently working on the strategy, and that the shift will see it re-emerge as a “devices and services company”.

The move was said to have been touched upon lightly in Ballmer's annual shareholder letter published in October, and while the firm details are still to be finalised, the source claims that several executives are due to see their roles expanded, including one Don Mattrick.

Ballmer's note said, "This is a significant shift, both in what we do and how we see ourselves — as a devices and services company. It impacts how we run the company, how we develop new experiences, and how we take products to market for both consumers and businesses.”

Tech blogger Paul Thurrott - who has recently and correctly predicted several key features and traits of Xbox One - believes these rumours to be true.

It is currently unclear where Windows fits into this supposed new strategy, but the focus on services and devices certainly fits into Xbox One's TV features, SmartGlass integration, Microsoft's investment into its TV department and rumours of a cheaper Xbox One model geared towards entertainment.

What do you make of the above? Let us know below.