Layoffs Surge in Tech: More Than 100,000 Jobs Cut in 2025 so Far

The global tech sector has seen more than 100,000 job losses in 2025, as major firms slash headcounts while redirecting resources toward artificial intelligence and other strategic shifts.

Intel has led the wave of job cuts, recently announcing plans to lay off 24,000 employees as part of a broader restructuring. The US chipmaker, facing declining PC CPU sales and a transition to AI-focused products, is projected to cut up to 75,000 jobs worldwide by year’s end.

Microsoft has also reduced its workforce by 15,000 employees, affecting its cloud, gaming, and hardware divisions. CEO Satya Nadella described the layoffs as “painful but necessary,” even as the company continues to post strong financial results and invests heavily in generative AI.

Meta, Google, Amazon, and Cisco are among other tech giants implementing significant downsizing while increasing spending on AI development. Industry analysts note that the companies are seeking to capitalize on AI advancements, even as concerns grow that the sector may be overestimating short-term returns from the technology.

The cuts come after years of aggressive hiring during the pandemic, when firms anticipated lasting growth in remote work and digital services that ultimately did not meet expectations.

Geopolitical uncertainty, trade tensions, and concerns about tariffs have also fueled cost-cutting efforts.

The layoffs have reignited debate over corporate responsibility, with critics pointing to practices in countries like Japan, where executives often take pay cuts to preserve jobs. Former Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata famously argued that firing workers damages long-term morale for short-term financial gain.

Industry observers expect further layoffs through the remainder of 2025 as companies continue to restructure around AI-driven strategies.