Microsoft Cuts 3% of Jobs, Affects Thousands

Microsoft has confirmed workforce reductions affecting 3% of its global employee base.

According to CNBC, Microsoft employed 228,000 people as of June 2024 and is streamlining management structures across all departments. The layoffs impact approximately 6,000 employees.

A Microsoft representative stated to CNBC, "We are continuing to make strategic organizational adjustments to best position the company for success in a rapidly evolving market."

IGN has inquired whether these reductions extend to Microsoft's video game operations.

In September 2024, Microsoft eliminated an additional 650 positions from its gaming division, following 1,900 layoffs earlier in the year. These earlier cuts included the closure of Tango Gameworks, developer of Hi-Fi Rush, and Arkane Austin, developer of Redfall. Since acquiring Activision Blizzard for $69 billion in 2023, Microsoft has laid off a total of 2,550 gaming staff.

In a June 2024 interview with IGN, Xbox head Phil Spencer commented, "I am responsible for operating a sustainable and growing business within the company, which occasionally requires making difficult decisions—choices I don't personally enjoy, but which are necessary."

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