Xbox Cofounder J Allard Joins Amazon as Vice President

J Allard, the cofounder of Xbox, has joined Amazon as a vice president on the company’s devices and services team. In an email to The Verge, Allard confirmed his new role, but declined to share any details about his work at Amazon, stating that it’s “too early to have anything to say” beyond “new ideas.”

Allard’s New Role at Amazon

Allard will report to Panos Panay, the former Windows and Surface chief, who left Microsoft last year after a 20-year tenure. Panay’s departure from Microsoft marked the end of an era, and his new role at Amazon has sparked excitement about the company’s future plans.

Allard’s Background and Experience

Allard spent over 20 years at Microsoft, where he cofounded the Xbox division, launched Xbox Live, and developed the Xbox 360 console. He also oversaw the development of the Zune, Microsoft’s iPod competitor. Allard departed Microsoft in 2010, following his work on the company’s canceled Courier tablet.

The Courier Tablet

The Courier tablet was a concept device that combined pen and touch into a digital notepad. Although it was never officially announced as a Microsoft product, the leaked concept sparked excitement among tech enthusiasts. However, the project was reportedly canceled due to infighting between the Courier group led by Allard and the Windows group led by Steven Sinofsky.

Post-Microsoft Career

Since leaving Microsoft, Allard has focused on reducing bike theft through his community service organization, Project 529. Earlier this year, Two Three Bird acquired Project 529, freeing up Allard’s time to pursue “new ideas.”

What’s Next for Allard at Amazon?

As a vice president at Amazon, Allard will likely be working on new projects and initiatives. Although he declined to share any details, his background in gaming and consumer electronics suggests that he may be involved in the development of new devices or services. With his expertise and experience, Allard is sure to make a significant impact at Amazon.

• J Allard joins Amazon as a vice president on the devices and services team
• Allard will report to Panos Panay, former Windows and Surface chief
• Allard spent over 20 years at Microsoft, cofounding the Xbox division and developing the Xbox 360 console
• Allard departed Microsoft in 2010, following his work on the canceled Courier tablet
• Since leaving Microsoft, Allard has focused on reducing bike theft through Project 529
• Allard’s new role at Amazon marks a new chapter in his career, with many wondering what new ideas he will bring to the company.