Amazon is seeking to hire the leader of Microsoft’s product team to run the group responsible for the voice-controlled Alexa assistant and Echo smart speakers.
Panos Panay, Microsoft’s head of Windows and Surface, will be leaving for Amazon just days before the former company’s September 21st event.
Panos Panay, a 19-year Microsoft veteran who played an important part in the company’s Windows and Surface computing operations, confirmed his resignation in a tweet, saying he’s starting a new chapter. Amazon’s hardware chief, Dave Limp, announced his retirement last month. He said in his tweet-
After 19 incredible years at Microsoft, I’ve decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. I’m forever grateful for my time at Microsoft and the amazing people I had the honor to make products with.
After 19 incredible years at Microsoft, I've decided to turn the page and write the next chapter. I’m forever grateful for my time at Microsoft and the amazing people I had the honor to make products with.
— Panos Panay (@panos_panay) September 18, 2023
This adjustment comes as both Amazon and Microsoft prepare to introduce new technology. Amazon’s event will take place in Virginia, while Microsoft’s will take place in New York.
This isn’t the first time these two tech behemoths have swapped CEOs. Microsoft hired a big shot from Amazon for cybersecurity a couple of years ago, and there was some drama, but they worked it out. Microsoft also altered its policy prohibiting employees from working for competitors.
Panos Panay previously managed Microsoft’s Surface tablets before expanding into laptops, desktops, and other products. However, Microsoft has recently scaled back Surface, and Panay’s mixed-reality goggles project did not go as planned.
Amazon has grown a sizable consumer electronics industry, primarily by selling low-cost items such as Echo Dot speakers and Fire tablets. However, its Alexa voice assistant has lagged behind competitors such as ChatGPT and other AI chatbots.
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Amazon tried some daring experiments under Dave Limp’s leadership to improve Alexa and get it into more households.
However, several of those initiatives, such as the home robot Astro and a drone camera, have encountered difficulties. Microsoft has stated that Yusuf Mehdi will be in charge of the Windows and Surface operations.
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