Meta Layoffs: 8,000 Employees To Be Hit In First Phase Starting May 20, More Cuts Ahead

Last Updated:April 18, 2026, 08:09 IST

Meta will cut about 10 percent of its global staff, around 8000 jobs, starting May 20, with more layoffs likely in 2026 as it shifts spending toward artificial intelligence

Meta to Begin Major Job Cuts, 10% Workforce Hit in Initial Round

Meta Layoffs: Meta Platforms is preparing to roll out a major round of job cuts starting May 20, marking the first phase of broader layoffs planned for 2026, according to a Reuters report citing sources familiar with the matter.

The move comes as the company ramps up spending on artificial intelligence (AI) and restructures its operations to align with the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Around 10% Workforce to Be Impacted in First Phase

The Facebook and Instagram parent is expected to cut nearly 10% of its global workforce in the initial round—impacting close to 8,000 employees, as per one of the sources.

This marks one of the largest workforce reductions at the company in recent years, underscoring the scale of its internal restructuring efforts.

More Layoffs Likely in Second Half of 2026

Sources told Reuters that additional layoffs are being planned for later this year, although specifics around timing and scale remain unclear.

Executives are likely to fine-tune these plans depending on how quickly artificial intelligence capabilities evolve and how effectively they are integrated into Meta’s operations.

AI Push Driving Organisational Overhaul

CEO Mark Zuckerberg is investing heavily—running into hundreds of billions of dollars—into AI initiatives. The goal is to fundamentally reshape Meta’s products, platforms, and internal workflows around AI technologies.

This aggressive pivot reflects a broader trend across the tech industry, where companies are prioritising automation and AI-driven efficiency.

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