- Companies recently announcing layoffs, exceeding 50,000 in 2025, are increasingly citing artificial intelligence as the cause.
- Experts suggest many of these layoffs are "AI-washing," masking underlying issues like pandemic-era over-hiring or business struggles.
- Attributing layoffs to AI provides a positive message for investors, avoiding admission of broader business problems.

A: Hey! Did you hear about all the layoffs happening? It’s crazy!
B: No! Really? Which companies?
A: Like, Amazon and Pinterest! They're saying it's because of AI.
B: Seriously? AI? That sounds…convenient.
A: Exactly! That’s what I thought! Apparently, it’s called “AI-washing.”
B: AI-washing? What does that even mean?
A: Basically, companies blame AI for layoffs, but maybe it’s other stuff. Like, they hired too many people during the pandemic, you know?
B: Oh, I see. So, it’s kind of an excuse?
A: Yeah! Some reports say they don’t even have proper AI systems ready yet!
B: Wow. So they’re just telling investors what they want to hear?
A: Pretty much! It's better than saying the business isn't doing so well, right?
B: Totally! Smart, but a little sneaky.
A: Right?! It’s a bit of a mess.