Steve Sinofsky is probably the second most important figure at the company after the chief executive Steve Ballmer.

BBC: Windows boss shown the door

The Surface will "be priced like comparable tablets, " Windows Chief Steve Sinofsky said.

WSJ: Microsoft Unveils Surface Tablet to Rival iPad

Although it features a quote from Steve Ballmer expressing gratitude for Sinofsky's years of work and another from the man himself talking of the professionalism and generosity of everyone at "this awesome company", there is no explanation of why he is leaving.

BBC: Windows boss shown the door