Meta's Grim Vibe: AI Tracking, Pay Cuts & Unionizing

Meta employees are facing a period of unprecedented low morale, with many bracing for significant layoffs scheduled for Wednesday, May 20th. The company plans to eliminate approximately 10 percent of its workforce, nearly 8,000 individuals, citing a need for increased efficiency and to balance other investments. This move adds to a series of cuts over the past four years.

The atmosphere within Meta is described as grim, fueled not only by the impending layoffs but also by declining employee compensation. Annual raises have seen reduced portions allocated in company shares, with median total compensation falling significantly from 2024. This financial impact, coupled with mandatory role changes for engineers and courtroom losses, has contributed to widespread discontent.

Adding to the concerns, Meta has installed corporate software on employees' computers to monitor their activity, ostensibly for AI training purposes. This has intensified fears among employees that their work is being used to develop AI models that could eventually replace them. Many are reportedly hoping to be laid off to receive severance and benefits.

In the United Kingdom, employee frustration has escalated to the point where a movement to form a labor union is underway. Workers are seeking protection for their jobs, benefits, and privacy, citing a need for basic human treatment from leadership. This echoes similar organizing efforts at other tech giants concerning AI development and its implications.

Despite strong quarterly profits, Meta faces significant internal challenges. Employee morale is so low that it is allegedly hindering the company's recruiting efforts. While Meta has defended its job cut decisions and AI projects, a spokesperson assured that safeguards are in place for sensitive content and data privacy.