Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has responded to recent reports that Microsoft hasn't ruled out the possibility of selling its entire gaming business following its ongoing restructuring.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Sharma said, "Xbox is not for sale," while explaining that the company is prepared to make changes to improve the division's performance. She said Xbox would do "whatever it takes" to succeed, including exploring partnerships and finding an appropriate operating model. Sharma also emphasized a long-term approach to the business within Microsoft.
Sharma's reassurance about the longevity of Xbox under the Microsoft banner comes after reports from Reuters and The Information surfaced that claimed Microsoft was considering separating Xbox or changing its corporate structure in such a way that would make Xbox independently owned, but still a close partner with Microsoft. The reports claimed this change would be beneficial to Microsoft's balance sheet.
However, those reports seem to be inaccurate, as Sharma said, "We've got a long way to go with Microsoft, and we're going to take the long-term view."
These reports of Microsoft separating from Xbox were reportedly made before Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella pledged support for Sharma's restructuring plan, which has involved several rounds of layoffs with approximately 3,200 role reductions originally announced for fiscal year 2027. Discussing Xbox on the Sources podcast, Nadella welcomed the streamlining of Xbox and said Microsoft needs a sustainable business model that can deliver games to more people.
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Notably, neither Nadella nor Sharma promised that the Xbox division will avoid further layoffs, studio changes, or strategic "restructuring" shifts. For now, however, Xbox's chief has rejected the idea that the gaming business is being offered for sale.
