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Xbox Executive Faces Backlash Over AI Advice to Laid-Off Workers

Microsoft is pressing ahead with an $80 billion AI infrastructure buildout despite widespread criticism of an Xbox exec’s suggestion that laid-off staff turn to ChatGPT for emotional support.

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An Xbox exec suggested Microsoft CoPilot can reduce the cognitive load of the company's own layoffs.
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Overview

  • Matt Turnbull’s now-deleted LinkedIn post offered detailed AI prompt templates for ChatGPT and Copilot to assist with resume building, career planning, networking outreach and managing impostor syndrome.
  • Users on social media and industry experts called the advice tone-deaf and out of touch against the backdrop of Microsoft’s roughly 9,100 recent job cuts.
  • Microsoft’s gaming division was hit hardest by the layoffs, leading to cancelled video game projects and the closure of its Pakistan office after 25 years.
  • Critics warned that relying on chatbots for emotional and professional guidance risks replacing human outplacement services with automated tools unsuited for sensitive support.
  • Despite the uproar, Microsoft has maintained its workforce reductions and continues to move forward with its planned $80 billion investment in AI infrastructure this year.