The tech world is facing one of its most unexpected shocks of the decade.
More than 100,000 tech workers have lost their jobs in 2025, and what’s surprising isn’t just the scale — it’s where the cuts are happening.
Yes, AI companies, cybersecurity giants, and even fast-growing startups are trimming aggressively. And November has already become the peak layoff month of the year.
So, what’s really going on?
Why are even “recession-proof” careers suddenly shaky?
And is AI becoming both the creator and destroyer of tech jobs?
Let’s dive in.
The Numbers: Tech Layoffs Hit a New Milestone
According to industry trackers, the tech sector has already crossed 100,000 layoffs in 2025 — and the year isn’t even over.
🔹 Key Highlights
AI companies (yes, the ones hiring like crazy last year) are now scaling back.
Cybersecurity firms, once considered future-proof, are cutting expensive roles.
Entry-level positions are disappearing fastest.
Analysts expect a “hiring winter” extending into 2026.
This marks one of the most dramatic shifts in tech hiring since the 2020 pandemic.
AI: The Double-Edged Sword Behind the Layoffs
Ironically, the same AI models transforming the world are also reducing the need for large teams.
What’s happening?
AI automation is replacing repetitive coding, QA, and support roles.
Companies are tightening budgets and using AI to do more with fewer employees.
AI research labs are merging teams and eliminating overlapping roles.
This has triggered intense debate online:
Is AI helping businesses — or hollowing out the job market?
Cybersecurity Shock: How Did This “Safe” Industry Get Hit?
Cybersecurity was long considered one of the safest careers.
But in 2025, it saw massive cuts.
Why?
Over-hiring during 2022–2024 boom.
High salaries creating financial pressure.
AI-powered threat detection reducing manpower needs.
One viral post on X — about cybersecurity job rejections stacking up — gained 98,000+ likes, capturing the frustration of candidates worldwide.
Viral Outrage: Public Pushes for Tech Funds to Go Elsewhere
The layoff wave has sparked strong reactions on social media.
Many are questioning whether companies should continue investing billions into AI research instead of public infrastructure, especially public transportation.
A trending sentiment:
“We don’t need more chatbots — we need trains that arrive on time.”
This shift in mood shows how public trust in tech giants is being tested.
Entry-Level Jobs Are Vanishing Fast
If you’re new to tech, 2025 feels especially tough.
Companies are:
Freezing junior hiring
Filling beginner tasks with AI tools
Preferring multi-skilled mid-level professionals
The result?
Fresh graduates are struggling to get even their first interview.
Global Talent Market Is Being Reshaped
Analysts warn this isn’t just a temporary wave.
A global talent reset is happening.
Trends for 2025–2026
More contract-based hiring
Fewer perks, fewer on-site roles
Companies focusing on fewer, more productive teams
AI-first workflows requiring new types of skills
By 2026, the industry might look completely different from what we knew in 2022–24.
What’s Next? Is There a Way Out?
Experts predict:
Layoffs may continue into early 2026
Hiring will shift to:
AI safety
Robotics
Infrastructure engineering
Energy tech
Cyber-physical systems
But one thing is clear:
The era of easy tech jobs is over. A new, leaner, AI-driven phase has begun.
Tech layoffs crossing 100,000 in 2025 isn’t just a statistic — it’s a signal.
A signal that:
Tech is evolving
AI is rewriting job structures
Companies are preparing for an uncertain economy
For workers, this is a time to upskill fast, stay informed, and adapt to the new reality of the tech ecosystem.