In a surprising move, Meta Platforms has announced a major restructuring within its artificial intelligence (AI) division, resulting in the layoff of around 600 employees.
The company says the decision is part of its long-term plan to make its AI development process more agile, efficient, and product-focused.
According to reports, the layoffs mainly affect Meta’s Fundamental AI Research (FAIR) team and certain engineering groups that supported older AI infrastructure.
These teams have long been responsible for the company’s deep research efforts. However, Meta’s leadership now wants to shift resources toward newer, faster-moving AI projects, such as the company’s ambitious TBD Lab, which is currently working on next-generation large language models and “superintelligent” AI systems.
Meta’s Chief AI Officer, Alexandr Wang, explained the reasoning behind the restructuring in an internal memo, saying that “smaller and more focused teams can innovate faster.”
He emphasized that the company’s goal is not to cut costs but to make its AI units more impact-driven and aligned with Meta’s growing ambitions in AI-driven products like the Meta AI assistant, AR/VR experiences, and creator tools.
Despite the layoffs, Meta continues to hire in key AI roles, especially within the TBD Lab. The company has reassured that many affected employees will have the option to apply for other positions across its global teams.
Industry analysts believe this move signals a broader trend across the tech world — companies are rethinking how to manage AI talent efficiently. Rather than spreading teams across multiple projects, many are now focusing their best minds on fewer, high-impact innovations.
For Meta, this restructuring marks a pivotal step. The company isn’t stepping back from AI — it’s doubling down on it, but with sharper focus, leaner teams, and a renewed drive to stay ahead in the AI race.
