Microsoft AI Outlook: Professional Tasks Could Be Automated in 12–18 Months

Microsoft AI Chief Mustafa Suleyman projects professional white-collar tasks—law, accounting, project management, and marketing—could be fully automated within 12–18 months, with most professional tasks reaching human-level AI performance within two years. Microsoft has extended its IP agreement with OpenAI through 2032 and is investing in in-house foundation models to ensure self-reliance. Suleyman noted AI-assisted coding now handles the majority of software engineering tasks, and gains in compute power are enabling AI to outperform many programmers. Economists warn higher education and cognitively intensive roles are most at risk of displacement. The CEO emphasized safety and subordinate AI operation, ensuring tools enhance human well-being and keep humans in control.