Global tech layoffs surged in early 2026, with over 73,200 job cuts across 95 firms as companies pivot toward AI-driven operations. Major players like Snap Inc., Meta Platforms, Oracle Corporation and Amazon are reducing headcount to cut costs and automate tasks. India is among the hardest hit, while experts warn many white-collar roles could soon be replaced by AI.

New Delhi: Global technology firms accelerated job cuts in the first quarter of 2026, with over 73,200 layoffs by 95 companies, according to industry data.

The data from Layoffs.fyi showed that the past two weeks saw a fresh surge in headcount reductions. Snap Inc., The Walt Disney Company, Meta Platforms and Oracle Corporation, announced layoffs recently as firms streamline operations to cut costs and shift resources toward artificial intelligence.

Social media platform Snap Inc. said it would cut about 1,000 jobs or roughly 16 per cent of its workforce and eliminate over 300 open roles to boost efficiency and accelerate growth.

Chief Executive Officer Evan Spiegel said advances in AI were enabling automation of repetitive tasks, and with streamlining operations, the company expects savings of over $500 million by the second half of 2026, while severance costs are estimated at $95 million–$130 million.