Management Shift Puts Xbox 720 ‘Loop’ on Track for 2013 Release

Reports have sprung-up claiming Xbox's design head Don Coyner is set to step down from his position to make way for a new leader to spearhead development of Microsoft's next console.

Citing two unnamed Microsoft sources, CNET reported Coyner was set to step down Wednesday. According to CNET's report the veteran Xbox designer will move into a new undisclosed role within Microsoft, with his current job being filled by Emma Williams -- who oversaw the new design of the console's Xbox LIVE dashboard.

Not letting a lack of official information stop them, CNET went on to report Williams would be tasked to evolve the design strategy of Microsoft's next console -- which the "sources" reported is set to launch some time in 2013.

If true the new "leak" would add to a host of speculation regarding Microsoft's next console. Earlier in December another rumour stemming from GameSpot UK emerged suggesting Cytek's forthcoming Roman brawler "Ryse" was set to be released on the Xbox 720, not 360.

Prior to this, other rumours had suggested Microsoft planned to unveil and potentially release its new Xbox in 2013. Industry site Develop had issued its own report suggesting the device would be unveiled at the 2013 E3.

The site claimed that "[m]ultiple sources across the industry, from processor chip manufacturers to middleware firms, have told Develop they expect the console [Xbox 720] to be fully unveiled at E3 2013, months before its release."

If true the move would be a surprise. Coyner is one of the staple members of the Xbox team. Having joined Microsoft in 1995 as the console's director of marketing in 1999 he has been with the Xbox series since its birth.

Unfortunately, ascertaining the truth of CNET's report is difficult, Microsoft have remained tight lipped regarding its next console and at the time this article was written the company had not responded to the International Business Times UK's requests for comment.