HoloLens chief Alex Kipman is leaving Microsoft following allegations of misconduct

Alex Kipman, the lead developer of Microsoft HoloLens, is leaving the company, based on Insider. His departure comes after the identical publication reported allegations that he engaged in inappropriate touching and feedback in direction of feminine workers. He additionally reportedly fostered a tradition that diminished ladies’s contributions. After Kipman advised his workforce about his resignation, Microsoft cloud and AI VP Scott Guthrie introduced a reorganization that will break up the HoloLens group. In an e-mail that is additionally seen by GeekWire, Guthrie stated that the HoloLens {hardware} groups are becoming a member of becoming a member of the Windows + Devices group beneath Panos Panay. Meanwhile, the software groups are becoming a member of the Experiences + Devices division beneath Jeff Teper.

Guthrie additionally wrote that he and Kipman have been speaking in regards to the workforce’s path going ahead over the previous few months and that that they had “mutually decided that this is the right time for him to leave the company to pursue other opportunities.” Kipman will apparently assist with the workforce transitions over the subsequent two months earlier than leaving Microsoft solely. 

In the earlier Insider piece that reported on allegations towards Kipman, a supply stated he watched what was basically VR porn within the office in entrance of his workers. A former govt additionally advised the publication that that they had witnessed him behave inappropriately in direction of ladies greater than as soon as. He recalled an incident whereby Kipman allegedly saved massaging a feminine worker’s shoulders even after she saved shrugging her shoulders to get him to cease. Managers have been reportedly telling workers to not depart ladies alone round him. Eventually, 25 folks acquired collectively to compile a report in regards to the unhealthy experiences that they had with the chief. 

Microsoft did not verify or deny the allegations to Insider, however the company advised the publication that “every reported claim [it] receive[s] is investigated, and for every claim found substantiated there is clear action taken.”