Meta to Lay Off 10% of Staff Amid AI Race
Meta is set to lay off 10% of its workforce, impacting around 8,000 employees. This decision comes as the company pivots towards AI, leaving behind its Metaverse ambitions.

Major Layoffs at Meta
In a significant move, Meta has announced it will lay off 10% of its staff, equating to approximately 8,000 workers, effective May 20. This decision was confirmed through an internal memo and reflects the company's ongoing efforts to streamline operations amid rising costs and competition in the artificial intelligence sector.
Meta's Chief People Officer, Janelle Gale, described the layoffs as "unwelcome news" that creates an uneasy atmosphere within the company. The layoffs are part of a broader strategy to enhance efficiency and offset substantial investments in AI, where Meta is currently trailing behind competitors like OpenAI and Google.
- •Key points from the announcement include:
- •10% workforce reduction affecting 8,000 employees.
- •No hiring for 6,000 open roles.
- •Shift in focus from Metaverse to AI development.
- •Ongoing legal challenges impacting company finances.
As Meta navigates these changes, the future of its Metaverse projects remains uncertain, raising questions about the company's long-term vision and stability in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.