Meta has reportedly laid off 8,000 employees

Source: Engadget

Layoffs Overview

Meta is laying off around 8,000 employees, roughly 10 % of its workforce, and transferring another 7,000 staff members. The announcement comes from an all‑hands memo issued by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, as reported by Sky News and Business Insider.

“As previously shared, we have decided to reduce headcount… to allow us to offset the other investments we’re making,” the memo states.
Meta does not anticipate further company‑wide layoffs this year.

The combined layoffs and transfers will affect about 20 % of Meta’s workforce, marking one of the most significant cost‑cutting measures in the company’s history.

Mattgush/Getty Images

Details of the Memo

• The memo confirms earlier reports that 7,000 employees would be moved to new AI‑focused organizations, as detailed in a prior Engadget article.
• It also verifies statements from Meta’s HR head Janelle Gale, who previously told staff that the company would cut 8,000 jobs as part of an effort to run more efficiently.
• Meta had previously indicated that around 6,000 job vacancies would remain unfilled.

Zuckerberg emphasized the strategic importance of AI:

“AI is the most consequential technology of our lifetimes. Success isn’t a given. The companies that lead the way will define the next generation.”

Financial Context

In January 2026, Meta announced a capital‑spending budget of $115 billion to $135 billion for the year, roughly double the amount spent the previous year. This investment is aimed at supporting the Meta Superintelligence Labs and core business operations. The projected total expenses for 2026 are between $162 billion and $169 billion.

Employee Reactions

Multiple employees shared their experiences on social media. One technical writer posted on X:

“After nearly four years at Meta, I was one of the many, many people who were laid off today. Not just me, not just my team, but my whole entire ‘function’ was let go. Traded in for dollars to be spent on AI investment.”

Severance and Visa Guidance

The memo also outlines guidance on severance packages and visa support, stating:

“We want to say again that we’re grateful for your contributions. Your impact at Meta has been an important part of our story.”