Microsoft cuts hundreds more jobs after firing 6,000 in May
Microsoft's move underscores the tech industry's efforts to trim costs even as it plows billions of dollars into AI. PHOTO: AFP
Microsoft cuts hundreds more jobs after firing 6,000 in May
NEW YORK – Microsoft cut hundreds more jobs just weeks after its largest layoff in years, underscoring the tech industry's efforts to trim costs even as it plows billions of dollars into artificial intelligence (AI).
More than 300 employees were told their positions had been eliminated on June 2, according to a Washington state notice reviewed by Bloomberg.
A Microsoft spokesperson said the latest headcount reduction is in addition to the 6,000 job cuts announced in May. 'We continue to implement organisational changes necessary to best position the company for success in a dynamic marketplace,' the spokesperson said.
The AI boom has roiled the tech labour market because companies are prioritising AI-focused jobs and harnessing the technology to save money.
Microsoft and peers including Facebook parent Meta Platforms have touted the effectiveness of AI-assisted coding tools in speeding up the software development process. Last week, Salesforce said the internal use of AI has allowed it to hire fewer workers.
Microsoft's previous layoffs fell hardest on software engineers. It couldn't be determined what kind of jobs were affected on June 2. As of June 2024, the company had about 228,000 full-time employees, 55 per cent of whom were employed in the United States. BLOOMBERG
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