Microsoft is embarking on a significant restructuring of its Windows engineering teams, consolidating them into a single organization. This strategic move aims to enhance focus on critical initiatives, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. Pavan Davuluri, who recently ascended to the role of president of Windows and devices, communicated these changes in an internal memo that has garnered attention.
In his memo, Davuluri emphasized the importance of this unification, stating, “This change unifies Windows engineering work under a single organization.” By aligning the teams responsible for Windows client and server, Microsoft seeks to streamline efforts and deliver on its strategic priorities more effectively.
This reorganization marks the first major shift in Windows’ structure since Davuluri took the helm over a year ago. Under this new framework, leaders from various Windows teams—including Core OS, Data Intelligence and Fundamentals, Security, and Engineering Systems—will now report directly to Davuluri. This consolidation means that the majority of Windows engineering will now operate under one division leader, rather than being divided between the Windows and Azure teams.
The history of Windows’ organizational structure has seen its share of changes. Following the departure of former Windows chief Terry Myerson in 2018, the company split Windows into two distinct teams: one focusing on the core platform and the other on client experiences. Although some elements were reintegrated under Panos Panay in 2020, the core engineering teams remained separate until now.
While certain lower-level components of Windows will still be managed by Azure teams, the bulk of the Windows operations will now fall under Davuluri’s leadership. He noted, “There are clear areas where we know we will continue to work with and support the Azure organization, such as in Storage and Networking and Security.” This collaboration will ensure that foundational support for client scenarios, silicon enablement, and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) remains robust.
This reorganization places additional responsibilities on Davuluri as Microsoft intensifies its focus on integrating AI features into the operating system. He expressed confidence that this restructuring will facilitate the delivery of “our vision of Windows as an Agentic OS.”
In line with this vision, Microsoft has recently launched the Windows AI Labs program, designed to experiment with innovative AI functionalities within Windows 11. The company has also been actively incorporating a variety of AI features into the operating system, including the introduction of a Copilot Vision tool and an AI-driven Settings agent.
