Bach, Allard Depart Microsoft

Microsoft’s Entertainment and Devices (E&D) Division, responsible for consumer products such as the Xbox and Zune media player, underwent a massive shake-up, with Robbie Bach, the unit’s president, and J Allard, its senior vice president of Design and Development, both stepping down from their current positions. J Allard’s departure had been preceded by days of rumors, but Bach’s retirement came as more of a surprise to outside observers. J Allard will remain onboard as a consultant to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. Microsoft named two other executives to manage the division’s assets, although the unit’s ultimate structure remains unclear.

The Entertainment and Devices Division is dedicated to more consumer-centric endeavors, such as the Xbox, the Zune media player and software for mobile devices like the recently released Kin phones.