Windows executive Steven Sinofsky has left Microsoft with immediate effect just weeks after the company unveiled their new Windows 8 operating system designed for tablets, PCs and smartphones.

In a statement on Microsoft's website Sinofsky said, “It is impossible to count the blessings I have received over my years at Microsoft. I am humbled by the professionalism and generosity of everyone I have had the good fortune to work with at this awesome company,"

It's not known why Sinofsky has left on such short notice however several sources are reporting that there had been increasing tension between Sinofsky and a number of other executives within Microsoft.

Sinofsky's departure has come as a shock to many considering his high position in the company. As head of Windows division it was his responsibility to lead the teams building and releasing all new Windows software.

In a brief statement Steve Ballmer thanked Sinofsky for his time at the company saying, "I am grateful for the many years of work that Steven has contributed to the company,”

"The products and services we have delivered to the market in the past few months mark the launch of a new era at Microsoft."

This shake up comes just a few weeks after Apple CEO Tim Cook created as much of a stir after letting go Scott Forstall, the executive in charge of Apple's much criticised Maps application.