"Microsoft will always be an important part of my life's work and I will continue to be engaged with Satya and the technical leadership to help shape the vision and achieve the company's ambitious goals. I feel more optimistic than ever about the progress the company is making and how it can continue to benefit the world." Gates concluded the announcement with the following: "I am looking forward to this next phase as an opportunity to maintain the friendships and partnerships that have meant the most to me, continue to contribute to two companies of which I am incredibly proud, and effectively prioritize my commitment to addressing some of the world's toughest challenges." Of course, given that Microsoft is the parent company of Xbox, this does have some level of impact on what Phil Spencer and the team at Microsoft's gaming division are doing, however, the impact is likely negligible. Gates hasn't been involved with the direction of Xbox for quite some time.