Amazon Confirms AGI Division Layoffs Ahead of Q2 Earnings

Amazon confirmed on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, that it has eliminated an unspecified number of roles within its division for artificial general intelligence (AGI), a theoretical form of AI that would match or surpass human cognitive abilities. The cuts come as the company prepares to report its second-quarter earnings next week and continues a massive, multi-billion dollar investment push into AI infrastructure.

A company spokesperson said the decision reflects a strategic sharpening of focus on the initiatives deemed most important for customers. "We've been building large AI models for several years, and it remains one of the most important things we're working on," the spokesperson stated. "This is a fast-moving space, and we're sharpening our focus on the initiatives that matter most for customers, so we can move faster on what counts. That focus means some difficult decisions, including eliminating some roles within parts of our AGI organization."

Amazon did not disclose the exact number of employees affected or specify which teams were involved. The company said it is committed to supporting impacted employees through their transition, with U.S. employees receiving pay and...