Xbox Launches XP Division for Film, TV and Consumer Products
Xbox is creating XP, a new division led by Mojang chief Kayleen Walters, to oversee adaptations, merchandise, live events and brand partnerships.
Xbox announced it is launching a new division called XP that will oversee Xbox experiences outside of video games, including film and TV adaptations, consumer products, live events, and creator and brand partnerships, according to The Verge.
The division will be led by Kayleen Walters, who is leaving her role heading Mojang to become president of XP. Maria Angelidou-Smith, currently Reddit's chief product officer, will take over as CEO of Mojang and Minecraft on October 19th.
XP formalizes four investment areas: Xbox Pictures, Xbox Products, Xbox Places, and Xbox Partnerships.
Adaptations already in development
Xbox is already working on several film and TV projects, including a sequel to A Minecraft Movie, a third season of Prime Video's live-action Fallout series, a Call of Duty film, and a Diablo animated series for Netflix.
In 2012, Microsoft established Xbox Entertainment Studios to make film and TV adaptations of Xbox games, but shut it down two years later. Asha Sharma took over as Xbox CEO in February and has since enacted sweeping layoffs, sold off studios, and made changes to Xbox's studio structure, including putting Activision in charge of Halo.
Quick answers
Who will lead Xbox's new XP division?
Kayleen Walters, previously the head of Mojang, will serve as president of XP.
What projects are included in XP's portfolio?
XP oversees Xbox Pictures, Xbox Products, Xbox Places, and Xbox Partnerships, covering film and TV adaptations, consumer products, live events, and brand partnerships.
When does Maria Angelidou-Smith start as Mojang CEO?
She starts on October 19th, leaving her role as Reddit's chief product officer.