Amazon Job Cuts Linked to AI Investment, Backlash Grows

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has announced that the company will significantly reduce its corporate workforce over the next few years, with cuts expected to occur through both attrition and layoffs as generative and agentic AI are more widely adopted. Jassy described AI as a transformative, 'once-in-a-lifetime' technology that is automating many roles and increasing efficiency, though he acknowledged uncertainty about which specific jobs will be affected. Amazon is investing $100 billion this year in AI infrastructure, with over 1,000 generative AI services and applications currently deployed or in development. The announcement has sparked backlash among employees, who have voiced frustration over the focus on job reductions and questioned leadership accountability. Jassy has encouraged staff to upskill and participate in AI initiatives to remain relevant. The company's strategy reflects a larger trend among tech giants leveraging AI to transform operations and reshape workforce needs.