Microsoft lays off 650 employees in gaming division

Redmond: Microsoft announced the termination of 650 employees from its gaming division, focusing on corporate and support roles. The layoffs come as part of the company's efforts to restructure post-acquisition teams, although gaming revenue remains strong despite declining Xbox console sales.

As per reports, Cisco revealed a second round of layoffs in 2024, cutting approximately 7 percent of its workforce—around 5,600 employees. These layoffs followed an earlier round in February that affected 4,000 workers. Notably, Cisco delayed notifying the affected employees until mid-September. The cuts also impacted Cisco's Talos Security division, with the company stating the reductions would allow for greater investment in growth opportunities.

Dell Technologies confirmed that it will continue reducing its workforce throughout 2024 due to slow recovery in PC demand and cost concerns. The company aims to focus on expanding its AI server business, which has garnered investor interest but faces profitability challenges due to high chip costs.

Qualcomm announced plans to lay off 226 employees at its San Diego location, adding to the more than 1,250 jobs it cut less than a year ago. The company continues to grapple with economic challenges impacting its smartphone chip business.

Udemy, an online education platform, revealed it will cut 50 percent of its workforce as part of a restructuring initiative. The company plans to rehire in lower-cost regions to improve operational efficiency. Meanwhile, WeTransfer will see 75 percent of its staff laid off following its acquisition by Bending Spoons in July. The cuts are part of Bending Spoons' strategy to make its acquisitions, such as Evernote and Meetup, more profitable.

Additionally, even smaller tech startups have not been immune to the layoffs. Bengaluru-based healthtech startup Dozee let go of around 40 employees in an effort to reduce losses, despite its presence across India. With revenue growth stagnating and losses mounting, the company is now shifting its focus to expanding in the U.S. and other international markets.

These job cuts reflect the broader restructuring efforts and financial challenges faced by the tech industry throughout 2024. Both large corporations and smaller firms continue to adjust their strategies as they navigate an increasingly complex market.