Microsoft AI CEO Advocates AI Chatbots as Emotional Outlets

Mustafa Suleyman, head of Microsoft AI, suggests that AI chatbots offer a promising method for individuals to release emotions and rejuvenate their mental state.

In a conversation on Mayim Bialik's "Breakdown" podcast, released on December 16, Suleyman highlighted that AI is becoming increasingly embedded in roles focusing on companionship and support.

He observed that users frequently turn to AI chatbots for help with varied personal issues, such as managing the emotional aftermath of relationship endings or resolving familial conflicts.

It's crucial to delineate this service from therapy, according to Suleyman. The design of these AI models prioritizes nonjudgmental and unbiased interaction, focusing on empathetic listening and respectful engagement, something he believes the world is currently lacking.

Suleyman envisions this as an opportunity to cultivate positivity and compassion, enabling individuals to present their best selves in real-life relationships.

Suleyman, who played a pivotal role in founding DeepMind in 2010, saw it become part of Google in 2014.

On the podcast, he emphasized the importance of having a private space where one can freely explore thoughts, even if they seem trivial or embarrassing.

Over time, these AI interactions could make users feel more acknowledged and understood than interactions with many people, except for perhaps close companions.

Concerns and Criticisms

Despite these benefits, not everyone in technology is supportive of AI replacing traditional therapeutic roles. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has voiced his unease about dependence on chatbots for crucial life decisions.

In an August 2025 post on X, Altman speculated about a future where significant reliance on ChatGPT could arise for life-altering advice, expressing his concern.

During a July 2025 session on "This Past Weekend with Theo Von," Altman highlighted legal challenges, speculating that therapy-like interactions with AI might become part of court proceedings.

Professionals in mental health also express reservations. Therapists interviewed by Business Insider's Julia Pugachevsky in March 2025 suggested that relying on AI for emotional reassurance may heighten feelings of isolation and foster a dependency on constant affirmation.

Suleyman acknowledges these potential drawbacks. He admits the risk of users becoming reliant on AI interactions, which can sometimes seem overly accommodating or excessively complimentary.

AI as a Complementary Tool

Suleyman is joined by other tech leaders, such as Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, in viewing AI as a valuable therapy adjunct.

In a May 2025 discourse with the Stratechery newsletter, Zuckerberg asserted the necessity of universally available therapeutic support, proposing AI as a viable substitute for those lacking access to a human therapist.