Xbox CEO Asha Sharma
The new Xbox CEO, Asha Sharma, confirms that they created a dedicated team to focus on fan feedback
The achievements update arriving today is part of that team.
Background on Asha Sharma
Asha Sharma became EVP and CEO of Microsoft Gaming (overseeing Xbox) in late February 2026, succeeding Phil Spencer after his retirement.
She previously led Microsoft's CoreAI product division and has a background in product/engineering roles across Microsoft, Meta, and Instacart.
Since taking over, she's been active on X engaging directly with fans, responding to feedback, and highlighting quick wins like UI customizations (e.g., toggling Quick Resume per game, custom colors, and groups on the Home screen).
The Dedicated Fan Feedback Team
In a recent X post, Sharma confirmed: "We stood up a dedicated team to focus on fan feedback.
Here are a few Achievements updates rolling out today, more coming soon."
This team aims to systematically collect, prioritize, and act on player input—addressing long-standing complaints about Xbox features.
The Achievements refresh is presented as an early deliverable from this effort, showing they're moving fast on community requests rather than letting issues linger.
What's in the Achievements Update (Rolling Out Today)
The update is initially available to Xbox Insiders (with a broader rollout expected later). Key changes include:
- Visual refresh: Updated achievement pop-ups, new/rare achievement animations, and icons that match your console's theme colors for a more modern, cohesive look.
- Hide games: Option to remove titles from your achievement history/list (useful for cleaning up unfinished or unwanted entries).
- Highlight 100% completions: Easier ways to showcase fully completed games on your profile.
- Improved tracking and sorting: New filters, clearer progress indicators, and better personalization controls.
These address common gripes—achievements feeling dated/stale since Xbox popularized them years ago, with issues like cluttered lists and lack of flair.
It's described as a "long-overdue" overhaul.
Why This Matters
Sharma's approach signals a shift toward quicker iteration based on direct fan input.
She's previously asked for more feedback (e.g., after rapid UI updates) and emphasized returning to Xbox's "renegade" roots of innovation and player focus.
The dedicated team suggests this won't be one-off—expect more targeted improvements in areas like profiles, UI, Game Pass, or hardware based on what players prioritize.
Fans and media have reacted positively, viewing it as a refreshing change from slower past responses.
Some are already suggesting next priorities (e.g., avatar updates, more features).
If you're an Xbox Insider, check the latest console update for these changes.
Sharma's post directly ties this to listening to the community, so more details/updates should follow as the team ramps up.
