Microsoft plans new round of layoffs hitting sales, consulting and Xbox teams

Microsoft is preparing for another wave of job cuts that could affect thousands of employees across its sales, consulting, and Xbox divisions. The reductions are expected to be smaller in scale compared to previous rounds of layoffs at the company. The move reflects Microsoft's ongoing strategy to control costs while redirecting investment toward artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, the company had also introduced a voluntary retirement program as part of its workforce management efforts. The latest cuts come despite Microsoft maintaining a strong market position, even as its stock has recently experienced a slight decline.