Software developers made up the largest group affected by Microsoft layoffs in Washington state. According to Bloomberg’s analysis of state documents, more than forty percent of those let go held positions in software engineering, while relatively few staff from sales or marketing were impacted.
Though engineers represent a significant proportion of Microsoft’s staff, the company has not released specific figures on their workforce breakdown. These layoffs are part of a broader effort impacting around 6,000 employees across the company in recent months.
Impact of AI and Restructuring at Microsoft
The timing of the layoffs has drawn attention, especially considering that CEO Satya Nadella recently noted that artificial intelligence is now responsible for writing up to thirty percent of the company’s code. This revelation has prompted questions about whether advancements in AI-assisted coding may have influenced the restructuring.
TechCrunch requested clarification from Microsoft regarding whether these job cuts were linked to the increased reliance on AI tools but the company declined to comment. Instead, Microsoft stated the primary aim of the reductions is to streamline the organization and reduce management layers.
The move underscores the profound changes underway at major tech companies as they adapt to both technological innovation and evolving business priorities. Microsoft’s workforce changes reflect a broader industry trend as automation and artificial intelligence reshape traditional roles within technology firms.
