Synopsis
Meta layoffs 2026: Meta plans to cut around 200 jobs in Silicon Valley, adding to recent layoffs across teams like recruiting and Reality Labs. Earlier cuts exceeded 1,000 roles, with more reductions possible. Despite this, the company continues hiring and had about 79,000 employees at the end of 2025.This move adds to layoffs that happened towards the end of March, affecting teams across recruiting, sales, operations, and the Reality Labs division.
Previous layoffs in Meta
In January 2026, Meta had already eliminated over 1,000 or around 10% of the roles in Reality Labs. Some affected staff are being offered other positions within the company, although some roles may require relocation.
In early March, Reuters reported that Meta might cut up to 20% of its workforce, though timing and numbers were not finalised. If this happens, it would be the biggest reduction since 2022–2023, when the company cut 11,000 jobs, about 13% of its workforce.
Despite layoffs, Meta is still hiring for key roles. According to the report, at the end of 2025, it employed about 79,000 people, a 6% increase from the previous year, with headcount at 78,865 as of December 31, 2025.
Heavy AI investment
Earlier this year, CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that Meta is reducing team size and instead using AI tools to boost efficiency.
The company plans to increase spending on AI, with capital expenditure projected at $115–135 billion this year. This 75% jump from 2025 is mostly related to investment in AI infrastructure, such as servers and data centres. Operating expenses are also expected to rise about 40%, partly due to higher salaries for technical staff.
Even as some jobs are cut, Zuckerberg has been hiring aggressively since early 2024. Notable new hires include Alexander Wang, appointed chief AI officer, leading Meta Superintelligence Labs, and among the highest-paid additions.
Company response to layoffs
According to The Times of India, a Meta spokesperson said: “Teams across Meta regularly restructure or implement changes to ensure they’re in the best position to achieve their goals. Where possible, we are finding other opportunities for employees whose positions may be impacted.”
Earlier this year, Zuckerberg had said: “I think 2026 is going to be the year that AI starts to dramatically change the way that we work.”
