Xbox Executive Suggests AI Tools to Help Laid-Off Employees Manage Emotions

Massive layoffs announced by Microsoft this week have significantly impacted its game studios. However, one Xbox executive has a suggestion that could «help alleviate the emotional and cognitive strain associated with job loss»: utilizing AI chatbots for guidance.

In a now-deleted LinkedIn post shared by Aftermath, Matt Turnbull from Xbox Game Studios mentioned that it would be «careless not to try to provide the best advice I can under the circumstances.»

These circumstances include a series of canceled games, shut-down services, closed studios, and reductions within key Xbox divisions, as Microsoft laid off up to 9,100 employees across the company.

Turnbull acknowledged that there are «strong biases» against AI-based tools like ChatGPT and Copilot. Still, he suggested that anyone feeling «overwhelmed» could turn to these tools for assistance in resume writing, career planning, and job searching.

“Times are indeed tough right now, and if you’re experiencing a layoff or even preparing for one, remember that you are not alone,” Turnbull said. “No AI tool can replace your voice or your life experiences. However, in times when mental energy is low, these tools can help you process your situation more quickly, calmly, and clearly.”

Microsoft has been actively integrating AI, announcing plans to invest $80 billion in AI infrastructure prior to the latest round of layoffs. Under these conditions, Turnbull may have believed his recommendations were sensible. Yet, in a broader context, generative AI is seen by some creative professionals as a threat to industries like gaming, which have already been grappling with an increasing number of layoffs and studio closures over the past few years.

It is unclear why Turnbull deleted his LinkedIn post, but reactions to a related repost on Bluesky suggest that creatives likely had mixed feelings about his suggestions.

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