Former Microsoft product chief Panos Panay joins Amazon as head of devices business

Former Microsoft product chief Panos Panay will lead Amazon.com's unit responsible for the firm's Alexa and Echo products, the e-commerce giant said on Wednesday.

Panay, who was with Microsoft for over 19 years and most recently lead the Windows + Devices division, will take up the new role in October.

He will replace Dave Limp, a 13-year Amazon veteran who had announced plans to step down later this year.