Rumors surrounding the probability that Microsoft will allow an Xbox spinoff have been going on for years. This rumor was even more reinforced when forward thinker Satya Nadella was promoted to CEO. However, the opinion of Bill Gates on this issue is still of much importance.

Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, admitted that Microsoft plans to bring PC Gaming, Windows Gaming and Xbox gaming together. He said that with Nadella around, he expects to see that the team works on it in order to create a general gaming strategy, a clear indication that Nadella gets his full support.

As far as an Xbox spinoff is concerned, Gates said that he would definitely advocate for it, but disclosed that it is the last thing his company would ever do. This is enough reason for people to rest assured that his company will not be unleashing its rights to Xbox any time soon.

Frank X. Shaw, Microsoft's VP for Corporate Communications, posted on Twitter: "Context: Bill's comments re Xbox reflected support of Satya as CEO. Also said committed to gaming x-plat with Xbox as key to gaming strategy. Microsoft remains committed to Xbox and the millions of Xbox fans around the world."

Gaming Handheld Console

When Sony declared that it was venturing into the portable gaming market, rumors also emerged about a gaming handheld console created by Microsoft. However, it is more unlikely that Microsoft will create a gaming handheld console while the Wii U is currently enjoying a big share in the market.

Microsoft has already announced that their portable gaming device will use Windows Phone 8 as its go-to platform. A Microsoft representative also said last year that although Xbox Live is accessible on Windows Phone, Windows 8 and Xbox 360, Microsoft's objective is to make a smooth faultless Xbox Live service for different platforms that will give users active access to their favorite games and Live Xbox experiences.

Even if Microsoft is attempting to get a slice of the mobile gaming market, the company is not excited with the dedicated gaming handheld gadgets.