Xbox Live chief John Schappert is waving farewell to Microsoft, and will join as their new COO from July 14th - that's the news in early this morning.

John Pleasants has announced his departure from EA in pursuit of 'other interests' (he has joined social game maker Playdom as CEO), and this paves the way for Schappert to return to the game maker he first joined in 1991 as a software programmer.

Schappert is perhaps most famous for spearheading the 360's offerings, overseeing the launch of the New Xbox Experience, Gears of War, Halo, et al.

"We are thrilled to welcome John Schappert back to EA," beamed EA boss John Riccitiello. "He has a great track record as a leader and innovator in our industry. His years of experience with EA and in Microsoft's Xbox business provide him great insight into recognizing what consumers want."

By Luke Guttridge