Xbox CEO asks how to spell Xbox

The debate over how to spell Xbox has flared up again. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma recently shared a poll on social media asking players how they spell the brand: “Xbox” or “XBOX.” The question comes as the original Xbox approaches its 25th anniversary, after Microsoft launched it in 2001.

The history of Xbox

Since the original Xbox launched, Microsoft has used the Xbox name for every console generation. But the brand’s spelling has never been entirely free of debate. Now, with Xbox’s 25th anniversary approaching, the discussion feels more relevant than ever. The poll has already received more than 7,000 votes, with “XBOX” currently holding a clear lead at around 63% over “Xbox.” The poll remains open until May 14, 2026.

Reactions from the player community

The responses to the poll reflect not just how people spell the name, but also broader feelings in the community about Xbox’s direction. Some players have urged Sharma to reconsider Microsoft’s multiplatform strategy, which has brought formerly exclusive titles to PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. Sharma has said she is willing to revisit the issue.

Financial impact of multiplatform titles

In 2025, Xbox games on PlayStation 5 brought in a significant amount of money for Microsoft. The result shows how valuable the multiplatform strategy can be, even if it remains controversial among some fans. Some players worry that this approach is weakening the exclusivity of Xbox titles.

Acknowledging the challenges

During a presentation in April 2026, Sharma acknowledged that Xbox hardware, content, and services had seen significant declines over the previous quarter. “We know we have work to do to earn every player today and in the future,” Sharma said. She has taken the challenge seriously, recently adding several AI veterans to Xbox’s leadership team and also lowering the price of Game Pass Ultimate.

In this context, the question of how to spell Xbox remains a symbol of broader debates around branding, exclusivity, and the future of the platform.