Microsoft has denied rumors that Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming and head of Xbox, is retiring soon. Kari Perez, head of Xbox communications, told The Verge, “Phil is not retiring anytime soon.”
The retirement speculation emerged after significant layoffs at Microsoft and claims from Call of Duty leaker GhostOfHope, who suggested Spencer would step down after the next-generation Xbox launch, with Xbox president Sarah Bond succeeding him. Microsoft communications chief Frank Shaw also disputed parts of these rumors on social media.
Spencer took charge of the Xbox division in 2014, after leading Microsoft Studios. Under his leadership, Xbox launched the Series X and S consoles, expanded Xbox Game Pass, and completed major acquisitions including Activision Blizzard and ZeniMax Media. He also helped bring Xbox games to platforms like PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
While Spencer remains in his role, Microsoft continues to cut jobs and cancel projects within Xbox Studios. Titles like Perfect Dark and Everwild have been cancelled. Turn 10 Studios, known for Forza Motorsport, is cutting over 70 staff. ZeniMax Online Studios reportedly scrapped a new MMORPG, codenamed Blackbird, after years of development.