Technology

Outrage Erupts as Xbox Exec Suggests AI Chatbots for Laid-Off Microsoft Employees

2025-07-06

Author: Rajesh

Controversial Advice in Tough Times

In a move that has sparked significant backlash, Xbox Game Studios Executive Producer Matt Turnbull recommended that recently laid-off Microsoft employees utilize AI chatbots as a coping mechanism for their job loss. In a now-deleted LinkedIn post, Turnbull advocated for tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, aimed at alleviating the emotional and mental burden that layoffs often bring.

A Wave of Layoffs at Microsoft

This advice comes amid an alarming wave of job cuts, with Microsoft laying off 9,100 employees across the company, particularly impacting Xbox divisions due to studio closures and game cancellations. In his original post, Turnbull made it clear that employees facing these tough circumstances are not alone, urging them to lean on innovative tools for support.

AI as a Career Coach?

Turnbull provided targeted AI prompt suggestions intended to aid in career planning. For instance, he suggested employees request assistance from an AI by saying, "Act as a career coach. I've been laid off from a [role] in the game industry. Help me build a 30-day plan to regroup, research new roles, and start applying without burning out." This perspective, while meant to offer guidance, has been criticized for its lack of personal touch.

Framing Emotional Struggles

His advice even extended into emotional wellness, as he encouraged workers to ask things like, "I'm struggling with imposter syndrome after being laid off. Can you help me reframe this experience in a way that reminds me what I'm good at?" Although Turnbull asserted that AI cannot replace a person's unique experiences, he believed these tools could help individuals become "unstuck faster, calmer, and with more clarity."

Immediate Backlash and Deletion

Criticism from gaming industry professionals arose swiftly, leading to the hasty deletion of Turnbull's post. Many viewed the timing of his recommendation as tone-deaf, especially as Microsoft invests a staggering $80 billion in AI technology while simultaneously downscaling its workforce.

Acknowledging the Impact of Layoffs

In response to the turbulent atmosphere, Xbox head Phil Spencer released a memo acknowledging the difficult situation. He emphasized that the company owes its current achievements to the very employees whose roles have been affected. Spencer explained that these layoffs were necessary to ensure long-term success and focus on areas of strategic growth.

A History of Job Cuts

These recent layoffs mark Microsoft's fourth round of job cuts in just 18 months, following reductions that have already impacted Activision Blizzard and various Xbox studios. As the ripple effects of these changes continue to unfold, questions linger about the company’s approach to both its workforce and its ambitious AI initiatives.