Xbox chief Phil Spencer is leaving Microsoft
Gaming

Xbox chief Phil Spencer is leaving Microsoft

Phil Spencer is departing Microsoft after nearly 40 years, alongside Xbox president Sarah Bond, marking a significant shift in Xbox's leadership. Asha Sharma will succeed Spencer as CEO of Microsoft Gaming, as announced by CEO Satya Nadella.


Is Phil Spencer actually leaving Microsoft, or is this rumor false?
No, Phil Spencer is not leaving Microsoft; the claim is a debunked rumor started by a Call of Duty leaker, with Microsoft stating 'Phil is not retiring anytime soon' and their communications chief calling it 'made up.'[2][3]
Sources: [1], [2]
What is Phil Spencer's role and tenure at Microsoft Gaming?
Phil Spencer has been with Xbox since the original console's launch in 2001, became head of Xbox in 2014, joined Microsoft's senior leadership as EVP of gaming in 2017, and was named CEO of Microsoft Gaming in 2022 following the Activision Blizzard acquisition announcement.[3]
Sources: [1]

20 February 2026

The Verge
Strava adds five activity modalities, including dancing
News

Strava adds five activity modalities, including dancing

Strava is enhancing its activity-tracking platform by introducing new categories, responding to community requests. This update aims to enrich user experience and engagement, reflecting Strava's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its active users.


What are the five new activity types added to Strava?
The five new activity types are Basketball, Cricket, Dance, Padel, and Volleyball. These allow users to log activities more accurately instead of using the generic 'Workout' option.[1][2]
Sources: [1], [2]
What is padel, one of Strava's new activity types?
Padel is a racket sport similar to tennis and squash, played in doubles on an enclosed court, which has seen rapid global growth with an estimated 30 million amateur players.[1]
Sources: [1]

20 February 2026

9to5Mac
Jony Ive

Jony Ive's First OpenAI Device Will Be Smart Speaker With Camera, 2027 Launch Planned

OpenAI, in collaboration with Jony Ive, is developing a smart speaker set for early 2027 release. This innovative device will feature facial recognition, AI integration, and user observation capabilities, aiming to enhance daily routines and interactions.


What distinguishes this smart speaker's camera features from typical smart speakers?
Unlike passive smart speakers, this device uses its camera for facial recognition similar to Apple's Face ID for secure purchases, observes surroundings to identify objects like items on a table, monitors user behavior to suggest actions such as early bedtimes, and may listen to nearby conversations.
Sources: [1], [2]
How did Jony Ive's involvement with OpenAI begin?
OpenAI acquired Jony Ive's design firm LoveFrom in May 2025, enabling Ive to lead the design of AI hardware including this smart speaker, with prototypes shown by November 2025.
Sources: [1], [2]

20 February 2026

MacRumors
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