Microsoft Surface Chief Panos Panay Departs as Rumors Swirl of Move to Amazon
Microsoft’s chief product officer and VP for devices, Panos Panay, has announced his sudden departure from the company after 19 years. Panay’s role at Microsoft primarily involved overseeing the Surface hardware line and developing Windows software. Speculations are circulating that Panay might be heading to Amazon to take over the position of outgoing Alexa and Echo chief David Limp. While the reason for Panay’s departure remains unclear, his recent post on X expressing excitement about an upcoming Microsoft event suggests that the move may not have been entirely planned.
Although Microsoft has not released an official statement regarding Panay’s departure, an internal memo sent by EVP Rajesh Jha confirmed the news. The memo also outlined several organizational changes, with Pavan Davuluri being appointed to handle Windows planning and release management. In addition, a new Windows and Web Experiences Team is being formed, and Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft Consumer and Chief Marketing Officer, will assume leadership of the Windows and Surface businesses.
Panay’s departure comes just days before a Microsoft hardware event in New York City. While some may find the timing abrupt, it is not entirely surprising given the challenges faced by the Surface line under Panay’s management. The Surface devices have struggled to generate significant profits for Microsoft, especially in the midst of the post-COVID slump in PC sales. Despite the hardware’s underperformance, Microsoft’s software and service businesses have remained strong.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft has been focusing heavily on its AI initiatives, which could explain the potential repurposing of resources and the integrated hardware and software groups under Panay. While the exact reasons for Panay’s departure are still unknown, news has emerged that Amazon is reportedly looking to hire him to lead its division responsible for Alexa and Echo devices. This aligns with David Limp’s plans to retire from Amazon.
As the tech industry eagerly awaits Microsoft’s hardware event, scheduled for later this week, all eyes will be on signs of deeper changes at the company and potential innovations. While Panay’s departure may mark the end of an era for Microsoft, the company remains committed to its strategy, as reiterated by CEO Satya Nadella.
In conclusion, Panos Panay’s sudden departure from Microsoft has sparked speculation about his potential move to Amazon. While his exact plans remain unknown, his legacy at Microsoft and the challenges faced by the Surface line under his leadership have set the stage for a significant transition in both companies. The tech industry eagerly awaits further updates and announcements from Microsoft’s upcoming hardware event.
