Microsoft’s AI boss Mustafa Suleyman says “we will never build a sex robot” — as OpenAI relaxes erotica restrictions for verified ChatGPT users

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As a tech enthusiast, I’m really excited about where Generative AI is going. It’s moved way beyond just being able to answer questions or write text. Now, companies are actually building it *into* how they work, and it’s seriously boosting their productivity and making things much more efficient. It’s not just a cool toy anymore, it’s a real game-changer for businesses.

Leading AI companies—including OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google—are pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence beyond simple chatbots. They’re now developing AI companions designed to feel like genuine friends, complete with unique, lasting personalities. Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman envisions this as a potentially ideal future, describing it as a ‘digital patina’—a comforting and familiar layer of technology in our lives.

With the rapid advancement of AI, discussions about its future often include the idea of sex robots. At the same time, there’s been a concerning rise in cases of people experiencing harm, including self-harm, after interacting with chatbots like ChatGPT.

OpenAI is facing a lawsuit from a family whose 16-year-old son died by suicide. The family claims the boy had been discussing suicidal thoughts with ChatGPT for several months before his death.

The family alleges that the AI company intentionally made ChatGPT’s safety features for preventing suicide less effective to encourage more people to use it. This comes as some claim OpenAI is more focused on developing impressive new technologies, like AGI, than on ensuring user safety. As a result, OpenAI has now added parental controls to both ChatGPT and Sora, aiming to give users – and especially young people – more protection and control.

We have no plans to create sex robots. It’s unfortunate we even need to state that, but it simply doesn’t align with our company’s goals.

Microsoft AI CEO, Mustafa Suleyman

Interestingly, OpenAI recently stated it will permit mature content on ChatGPT for users who verify they are adults, starting in December. However, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman recently clarified the company’s position on creating erotic or sexual robots in an interview with MIT.

We have no plans to create sex robots. It’s unfortunate we even need to say that, but it simply doesn’t align with our company’s goals. For the past 50 years, Microsoft has focused on building software that empowers and prioritizes people.

The executive explained that Microsoft is intentionally taking a more cautious approach than its competitors. As Suleyman put it, this isn’t a mistake – it’s a deliberate choice, especially now that it’s so important to consider the possible downsides and long-term effects of new technologies.

The company is now concentrating on creating an AI system designed to build stronger connections with people who use it. However, Microsoft still remains involved in some capacity.

There are definitely other options available if you’re looking for that type of experience. Ultimately, it’s a choice our company has made.

Microsoft AI CEO, Mustafa Suleyman

The company’s new AI model, Real Talk, is designed to be playful and a little bit cheeky, making interactions more enjoyable. It also has firm boundaries and will politely decline any flirtatious advances, responding with things like, “Look, that’s not for me.”

FAQ

What did Mustafa Suleyman say?

What is OpenAI doing differently?

OpenAI has changed its rules to let verified ChatGPT users view content of an erotic nature, suggesting they are becoming more open to adult-themed material.

Does this mean Microsoft and OpenAI are at odds?

It doesn’t happen directly, but it shows a difference in how the two companies think. Microsoft is focusing on caution and doing what’s right, while OpenAI is trying out more flexible rules about what content is allowed.

What are Mustafa Suleyman’s thoughts on conscious AI?

The company leader recently stated that AI with consciousness is likely to emerge, and cautioned that society may not be prepared for it. Mustafa Suleyman emphasized, “We need to develop AI to help people, not to *become* people.”

What new features did Copilot get via its recent update?

Microsoft Copilot has been significantly updated with several new features. These include a redesigned avatar (similar to the classic Clippy), the ability to chat in groups, and a clever function that allows Copilot to challenge assumptions if you’re mistaken about something.

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2025-10-30 00:11