Meta reportedly plans 15,800 layoffs, aims for massive AI infrastructure

Meta Platforms could be preparing for another major round of layoffs, with reports suggesting the company may cut more than 20% of its workforce—around 15,800 employees—to redirect resources toward large-scale artificial intelligence infrastructure projects.

Meta Platforms is reportedly considering one of its largest workforce reductions since the 2022–2023 restructuring, with potential layoffs affecting more than 20% of its global workforce. According to reports citing sources familiar with the matter, the move could impact roughly 15,800 employees if implemented.

The potential job cuts are believed to be part of Meta’s broader strategy to shift resources toward expanding its artificial intelligence capabilities and building large-scale data center infrastructure. The company is expected to significantly increase spending on AI development, which has become a central focus for major technology firms worldwide.

As part of this shift, Meta may also reduce headcount within certain divisions. Reports indicate that the company could cut about 10% of roles in its Reality Labs division, which focuses on metaverse-related technologies. The restructuring aligns with Meta’s growing emphasis on artificial intelligence, which is expected to play a major role in the company’s future product and platform development.

Sources suggest the layoffs could help offset the massive cost of AI infrastructure investments. Meta is reportedly planning large-scale data center development over the next two years, with overall spending commitments reaching as high as $600 billion. Capital expenditure for 2026 alone could reportedly reach around $135 billion, nearly double the company’s spending from the previous year.

If the reported layoffs materialize, they would exceed previous job cuts announced by the company. In 2022, Meta eliminated around 11,000 positions, followed by another 10,000 layoffs in 2023. Earlier this year, the company also cut approximately 1,500 roles in its Reality Labs unit.

However, Meta has pushed back against the reports. Company spokesperson Andry Stone described the claims as speculative and said the report was based on theoretical discussions rather than confirmed plans.

The technology sector has seen a growing wave of restructuring as companies shift resources toward AI-driven innovation. Firms across the industry are increasingly investing in automation, advanced computing infrastructure, and artificial intelligence tools to improve efficiency and support future growth.