Microsoft Announces Shake-Up in Mobile, Game Unit
Microsoft on Tuesday announced changes in the management team for its division that develops mobile phones, videogames and other devices.
Robbie Bach, the president of the Entertainment & Devices Division, which includes the software company's Xbox videogame and Windows Phone operations, will retire from the company this fall, the company said.
Don Mattrick will remain senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business and Andy Lees, senior vice president, will also continue to head the Mobile Communications Business. Beginning July 1, Mattrick and Lees will both report directly to CEO Steve Ballmer, the company said.
J Allard, the chief experience and chief technology officer in the division, is also leaving the company.
Allard's departure comes after the company shut down aproject he was working on that included the development of a PC tablet device, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday.
Despite Microsoft's early move into the mobile market, the company continues to face mounting pressure from its competitors Apple and Google
,who continue to dominate the smartphone market.
Microsoft is seeking to revamp its image in the mobile industry with the release of Windows Phone 7. Features include better touch-screens, improved web site browsing and other features that are part of the company's improvements to their mobile software. The phone is expected for shipping by the holiday season.
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