The tech industry continues to face significant turbulence in 2025, with widespread layoffs affecting companies from Big Tech giants to emerging startups. According to a detailed compilation by TechCrunch, thousands of workers have been impacted by job cuts this year, as firms restructure to adapt to economic pressures and shifting market demands.
The wave of layoffs, which began in previous years, shows no signs of slowing down. TechCrunch's updated list for 2025 reveals that over 22,000 workers have already been laid off this year, with a staggering 16,084 cuts occurring in February alone. This follows a brutal 2024, where more than 150,000 jobs were slashed across 549 companies.
Major players like Intel, which reportedly cut nearly 22,000 employees, top the list of layoffs in 2025. Other tech giants such as Microsoft, Google, and Meta are also implementing significant reductions, often citing cost-cutting measures and a strategic pivot towards artificial intelligence (AI) as key motivators.
Startups, often more vulnerable to economic shifts, are not spared either. Many have been forced to downsize or shut down entirely, unable to secure additional funding in a tightening venture capital market. This has led to a ripple effect, impacting innovation and job security across the sector.
Industry experts suggest that the focus on AI and automation may be a double-edged sword—while it promises efficiency, it also displaces roles in software engineering, HR, and middle management. As companies prioritize leaner operations, the human cost of these technological advancements becomes increasingly evident.
For a full breakdown of layoffs by month and company, TechCrunch’s ongoing tracker provides a sobering look at the state of the tech workforce. As the industry navigates these challenges, the future remains uncertain for many professionals seeking stability in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Andrew Lee
