the Microsoft executive who introduced the Surface line of laptops and Windows 11, is leaving the company after nearly 20 years.
In an email to employees on Monday, Rajesh Jha, executive vice president of Microsoft’s experiences and devices group, announced Panay’s departure.
“Under Panos’ leadership, the team created the iconic Surface brand with loved products,” Jha wrote. “More recently, as the leader of Windows, the team has brought amazing services and experiences to hundreds of millions with Windows 11 on innovative devices including those from our OEM partners.”
Yusuf Mehdi, another seasoned Microsoft executive, will assume leadership of the Windows and Surface businesses and products, according to Jha. Panay will assist with the transition, the memo said.
Panay is a highly respected figure in the tech industry, and his departure is a significant loss for Microsoft. He is credited with turning the Surface line from a niche product into a major competitor in the laptop market. He also played a key role in the development of Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system.
It is not yet clear what Panay’s plans are after leaving Microsoft. However, he is likely to be in high demand from other tech companies.
Impact on Surface and Windows
Panay’s departure is likely to have a significant impact on the Surface and Windows businesses. He was a passionate advocate for both products, and he played a key role in their success.
It is unclear how Panay’s departure will affect the direction of the Surface and Windows businesses. However, it is likely that Microsoft will continue to invest heavily in both products. The Surface line is a major source of revenue for Microsoft, and Windows is the most popular operating system in the world.
What to Expect Next
Yusuf Mehdi, who is taking over leadership of the Surface and Windows businesses, is a seasoned Microsoft executive with a deep understanding of the company’s products and customers. He is also a strong advocate for innovation.
Under Mehdi’s leadership, we can expect to see Microsoft continue to invest in the Surface and Windows businesses. We can also expect to see Microsoft continue to innovate in these areas.
Here are some specific things that we might expect to see from Microsoft in the coming months and years:
- New Surface devices with new features and designs.
- A continued focus on making Windows more user-friendly and secure.
- New Windows features that take advantage of the latest hardware and software innovations.
- More ways for people to use Surface devices and Windows together.
Overall, Panay’s departure is a loss for Microsoft, but it is unlikely to have a long-term negative impact on the Surface and Windows businesses. Microsoft has a deep bench of talent, and Mehdi is a capable leader. We can expect to see Microsoft continue to innovate and invest in these areas under Mehdi’s leadership.
