Meta begins laying off around 8,000 jobs amid AI transformation

Meta Platforms has begun a large-scale layoff process, cutting nearly 8,000 jobs—about 10 per cent of its global workforce—while reallocating thousands of employees toward artificial intelligence-focused roles.

The restructuring at Meta Platforms started on Wednesday (May 20), with affected employees across regions receiving termination notices via email from around 4:00am local time.

In parallel, nearly 7,000 employees are being shifted into new roles, primarily centered on AI development.

During the process, North America-based staff were instructed to work from home, consistent with Meta’s standard practice during major workforce reductions.

According to an internal document cited by Reuters, the company is moving toward a flatter organisational structure, aiming to streamline decision-making. Human Resources head Janelle Gale said teams are being reorganised into smaller “pods” to improve efficiency and autonomy.

The overhaul comes as Meta significantly ramps up investment in artificial intelligence. The company has projected capital expenditure of $125–$145 billion for 2026, largely directed toward data centers, in-house chips, and AI model training.

The restructuring follows broader internal challenges. Employee satisfaction ratings reportedly declined by about 25 per cent compared to 2024, while sentiment on workplace culture dropped nearly 39 per cent, according to internal feedback platforms.

Concerns have also emerged over workplace monitoring tools. A system called “Model Capability Initiative” has drawn attention for collecting keyboard and mouse usage data.

However, CEO Mark Zuckerberg has stated the data is used solely for AI training purposes, not surveillance.

Further rounds of layoffs are expected across additional Meta divisions in the coming weeks as the company continues its restructuring push.