Apple Cuts Over 200 Siri, Vision Pro Jobs in AI Shift

Apple has cut over 200 jobs across teams responsible for its Siri digital assistant, Vision Pro headset, and artificial intelligence initiatives, according to multiple reports. The restructuring, described as a shift toward smart glasses and AI development, involves layoffs of approximately 100 employees from the Vision Pro division and 100 from Siri and related software groups, as detailed by sources including Bloomberg and mactech.com.

The cuts align with broader industry trends of tech companies reevaluating workforce strategies amid rapid AI adoption. Apple confirmed the restructuring to Bloomberg, stating it is realigning teams as its business and product priorities evolve. While some existing positions will disappear, the company emphasized it plans to create new roles and support affected employees through internal opportunities. “We are grateful to these team members for their contributions, and we are committed to supporting them throughout their transition,” Apple said in a statement.

Shifting Focus: Vision Pro and the Future of Smart Glasses

The layoffs target the Vision Pro team, which has faced scrutiny since its 2024 debut at a $3,699 price point. Reports suggest Apple is winding down its Vision Pro gaming and immersive video content teams, citing high production costs for such content. Instead, the company plans to rely on external partners for immersive video, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Despite the cuts, Apple clarified that the Vision Pro headset and its visionOS operating system remain active projects.

However, conflicting signals about the headset’s future have emerged. In April 2026, Apple’s incoming CEO John Ternus, who assumed leadership in September, hinted at the “early innings” of spatial computing while praising the Vision Pro. Yet earlier reports, including one from April 2026, suggested Apple had halted work on the device. Bloomberg later noted that the company is prioritizing “smart glasses” over the Vision Pro, with a rumored 2027 release expected to lack 3D gaming and video capabilities. A potential new Vision Pro model is still projected for 2028, though the exact timeline remains unclear.

AI-Driven Restructuring and Internal Reorganization

The layoffs also affect Apple’s Intelligent Systems Experience group, which develops AI-powered features. The company cited the need to realign engineering resources with priority projects as AI becomes more integrated into its software ecosystem. This shift is tied to the development of a next-generation, AI-powered Siri, which requires a different technical architecture. Apple described the changes as part of a broader effort to accelerate AI innovation, though it did not specify how many roles were impacted beyond the 200 total.

Some reports suggest the Vision Pro team reductions are part of a larger strategy to redirect resources. For example, mactech.com noted that Apple had previously canceled a project to make the Vision Pro 40% lighter and 50% cheaper, shifting funds to smart glasses. The company’s focus on AI and wearable devices reflects a broader industry trend, with competitors like Meta and Microsoft also adjusting workforce priorities amid AI advancements.

Employee Reactions and Uncertain Outlook

Employees within the Vision Pro and Siri teams have expressed uncertainty about the future. While Apple maintains its commitment to the Vision Pro, internal communications suggest the headset’s role may be diminished. A Bloomberg report highlighted that the company is “largely shutting down” the Vision Pro gaming team, a move attributed to cost-cutting. Meanwhile, the AI smart glasses project, often referred to as “Apple Glasses,” remains a key priority, though details about its features and release date are sparse.

Industry analysts have debated the implications of Apple’s moves. Some view the layoffs as a strategic realignment to compete with AI-driven innovations, while others question whether the company is abandoning its spatial computing ambitions. The conflicting reports—ranging from claims that the Vision Pro is “on ice” to assurances of its continued development—underscore the challenges of navigating a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Broader Context: Tech Layoffs in 2026

Apple’s cuts are part of a larger wave of tech layoffs in 2026. According to a report by Yahoo Tech, over 175,000 tech workers have been laid off this year, with companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Oracle also making significant workforce reductions. Apple’s actions reflect broader pressures to optimize costs and invest in AI, a trend echoed by other industry giants. For example, Oracle cited AI adoption as a driver of its 21,000-job cuts, while Meta announced a 10% workforce reduction to fund AI initiatives.

Despite the layoffs, Apple emphasized its long-term vision for AI and wearable technology. The company’s decision to focus on smart glasses aligns with growing consumer interest in lightweight, hands-free devices. However, the success of this strategy will depend on overcoming challenges such as technical limitations and market competition. As Apple navigates this transition, the fate of its Vision Pro and Siri teams will remain a closely watched indicator of its broader priorities.