Report: Microsoft Windows chief to take on Xbox role

Microsoft Windows chief Julie Larson-Green could be in line to oversee hardware engineering at the computing firm as part of a major reorganisation at company.

People “familiar with the matter” have told Bloomberg that Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is expected to announce restructuring as early as next week, focusing its business units on devices and services.

Larson-Green could take on an expanded role over hardware engineering, which includes Xbox 360, Xbox One and Surface tablets, effectively filling the void left by former president of interactive entertainment business Don Mattrick, who left the company earlier this week to head up social gaming company Zynga as CEO.

The move could mean however that a direct replacement for Mattrick will not be appointed, at least at this time.

Skype president Tony Bates meanwhile could be put in charge of acquisitions and relationships with software developers, and Windows Phone software head Terry Myerson meanwhile could be set to also oversee Windows operating system engineering.

The report noted however that restructuring has yet to be finalised, and roles could still change until the announcement is made.