Microsoft names Satya Nadella to replace Steve Ballmer

Technology giant Microsoft has announced that Satya Nadella will be its next chief executive, the BBC reports. 

Indian-born Mr Nadella is currently Microsoft's head of Cloud and Enterprise, which builds and runs the firm's computing platforms and developer tools.

He takes over from Steve Ballmer who announced plans to step down last year.

Company founder Bill Gates said there was "no better person to lead Microsoft".

Mr Gates is stepping down as chairman, it was also announced, but will take up a new role as a technology adviser and will also retain a seat on Microsoft's board.

Microsoft's lead independent director John Thompson will take over as chairman.