Microsoft’s Panos Panay, the man behind the iconic Microsoft Surface brand of devices and the company’s most recent operating system, Windows 11, is bidding adieu to the tech giant. Surprisingly (or not?), Panay’s departure seems to have been a strategic move, as industry whispers suggest he’s making a beeline for Amazon.
Panay, who’s been the face of Microsoft’s Surface presentations, a role he has embraced with evident passion, has been with the company for nearly two decades. Starting as a Group Program Manager in 2004, he climbed the corporate ladder, eventually spearheading the development of the Microsoft Surface products and the company’s latest OS major release, Windows 11.
Panay took to Twitter, the platform’s old (but better) name, expressing his gratitude for his time at Microsoft.
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.
Microsoft’s big boss, Satya Nadella, tipped his hat to Panay, acknowledging his monumental impact and stating:
Thank you, Panos, for your impact on our products, culture, company, and industry over the past two decades. I’m grateful for your leadership, support, and all you’ve done for Microsoft and our customers and partners.
But as they say, every end is a new beginning. Reports are circulating that Panay is set to replace Dave Limp at Amazon, taking charge of the Alexa and Echo divisions. This is basically the tech equivalent of a favorite character switching to a new show in a crossover episode. And speaking of episodes, both Amazon and Microsoft have hardware events lined up this week. Coincidence? We think not.
Regardless, as one legend exits the stage, another steps into the spotlight. His name? Yusuf Mehdi, the man who will now helm the Windows and Surface divisions.
Known for jokingly describing himself as the “Forrest Gump of Microsoft”, Mehdi has been with Microsoft for over 30 years, playing a key role in the launch of several noteworthy products such as Internet Explorer, Bing search, Windows 10, Xbox One, and many more.
Clearly, Microsoft isn’t hitting the pause button. The company is gearing up for some internal reshuffling, ensuring that the Windows and Surface ships sail smoothly. As for Panay, if his next chapter is at Amazon, it promises to be as riveting as his Microsoft saga, and as we eagerly await the next update in this tech telenovela, one thing’s for sure: the tech world never ceases to surprise.
