Microsoft's AI Hiring Post Backfires Amid Layoffs
Microsoft is facing backlash again, this time for a job posting that featured a poorly made AI-generated image. The post, shared by Mike Matsel, the Principal Development Lead for Xbox Graphics, showed a woman using a futuristic monitor with the Xbox logo. The image looked off in many ways. The woman's top had strange shading, the keyboard was oddly shaped, and her headphones looked like Apple's, which is unusual for an Xbox post. Many people online pointed out these issues and criticized Microsoft for not checking the image before posting it.
This Isn't the First Time
This isn't the first time Microsoft has faced criticism for its use of AI. Just weeks ago, the company laid off 9,000 workers, including many from the Xbox division. This is the fourth round of layoffs in 18 months, bringing the total to over 20,000. At the same time, Microsoft is spending $80 billion on AI infrastructure. Some workers at Candy Crush-maker King, part of Microsoft's gaming division, were even replaced by the AI tools they helped create.
Online Reactions
People online were quick to point out the irony. One person wrote, "They didn't even review the AI image, while Microsoft says AI is the future it creates slop like this." Another asked, "You're the lead of the Xbox GRAPHICS team and didn't notice you posted an image where almost everything is wrong? Why would anyone apply to be on your team?"
Previous Criticisms
This isn't the first time a Microsoft employee has been criticized for an AI-related post. Matt Turnbull, Executive Producer at Xbox Games Studio Publishing, wrote a post advising people who lost their jobs to use AI tools for emotional support and career planning. That post was deleted quickly after people reacted negatively.
Consumer Pushback
Many consumers are pushing back against AI. They argue that companies are forcing AI on the public without considering the consequences. The latest example is at Glassdoor and Indeed, where 1,300 workers are being laid off because of AI.