[Rumor Risk Rating]
✅ True
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has laid off employees in 2024 as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and refocus on core business priorities. Specifically, **hundreds of jobs** were cut across AWS sales, marketing, and technology teams, including roles related to technology for physical stores after Amazon decided to eliminate its ‘Just Walk Out’ self-checkout system in U.S. stores[1][2]. These layoffs are part of a sector-wide wave of tech job cuts, and follow previous rounds in other Amazon divisions, such as Prime Video, MGM Studios, Twitch, and Audible earlier in the year[2].
Additionally, Amazon confirmed another round of corporate layoffs in early 2025, affecting the Communications and Corporate Responsibility organization, as part of ongoing efforts to innovate and operate more efficiently[3][4]. While the company did not disclose the exact number for that round, these decisions align with broader restructuring and cost control measures.
Despite the reductions, Amazon and AWS state they continue to hire in key priority areas and support impacted employees in finding other internal roles[1][2].