Microsoft reportedly laying off more people from MSN in favor of AI

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What you need to know

  • Microsoft reportedly cut several members of its MSN staff.
  • The move continues a trend by MSN to move toward AI.
  • MSN sparked controversy when AI confused two multiracial singers in the pop group Little Mix.

Microsoft is making further cuts to its MSN team, according to a recent report from GeekWire. The move continues MSN's trend of moving away from humans toward AI.

In June, Microsoft eliminated several MSN contract positions. These newly reported layoffs are for direct employees of MSN, including senior leaders of the Microsoft News editorial team, according to people familiar with the matter who spoke with GeekWire. The cuts to MSN staff come as part of Microsoft's annual fiscal year-end business review, according to GeekWire's sources.

MSN's initial move toward AI caused a stir when the service accidentally confused two multiracial singers from the pop group Little Mix. The story gained traction as it occurred soon after MSN let several human editors go.

Former MSN Money editor Bryan Joiner recently shared his thoughts on being replaced by AI. The piece goes over how Joiner believes AI can't perform the role of humans in the case of MSN.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.