Meta Platforms has laid off approximately 8,000 employees as part of a major internal restructuring aimed at transforming the company into an artificial intelligence-focused organisation.
The job cuts, representing about 10% of Meta’s global workforce, began rolling out across Asia, Europe, and the United States, with affected employees receiving notification emails early in the morning.
The layoffs come as the company intensifies its push into A.I. development under CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who has repeatedly described artificial intelligence as the most important technology shaping the company’s future.
In addition to the layoffs, Meta has reassigned about 7,000 employees to new A.I.-driven initiatives, signalling a broader restructuring of its workforce and operations.
The transition has reportedly created tension internally, with many employees expressing concerns over job security and the company’s increasing use of A.I. systems in internal operations and training. Some staff members also objected to internal data collection policies tied to A.I. development, with petitions reportedly circulating across offices demanding greater transparency and limits on how employee data is used.
Despite the layoffs, Meta continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence. The company has announced plans to spend more than $100 billion this year on A.I.-related infrastructure, research, and product development as it competes with other major tech firms in the global A.I. race.
Zuckerberg defended the restructuring, saying companies leading in A.I. will shape the next generation of technology and digital services. He also acknowledged growing anxiety among employees but maintained that the shift is necessary for Meta’s long-term competitiveness.
Affected workers are expected to receive severance packages that include several months of pay, along with additional compensation based on years of service.
The restructuring reflects a broader trend across the technology industry, where major firms are cutting traditional roles while increasing investments in artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced computing infrastructure.
