Microsoft plans to cut its workforce by 3%

Microsoft is set to reduce its global workforce by 3%, impacting staff members across various divisions and locations, as reported by CNBC.

With around 228,000 employees listed on LinkedIn, the company's decision could influence more than 6,000 individuals.

This follows a previous, smaller layoff round in January 2025, though the specifics of how the gaming division will be impacted this time remain uncertain.

A spokesperson for Microsoft stated to CNBC, "We continue to implement organisational changes necessary to best position the company for success in a dynamic marketplace."

The aim of the layoffs appears to focus on reducing managerial levels rather than being performance-related.

Earlier, in 2024, Microsoft released 1,900 employees from its gaming sector, with a subsequent reduction of 650 positions happening in September 2024, as recorded in reports from GamesIndustry.

The technology firm experienced a net income rise to $25.8 billion for the quarter which ended on March 31, 2025. This marks an 18% increase year-over-year, with its gaming division also seeing a 5% rise during this period, according to GamesIndustry.