Microsoft announced layoffs affecting under 600 global employees on September 22, 2026. The majority of these cuts occurred within its Xbox gaming division. This round continues a restructuring effort announced in July. Microsoft also eliminated positions in cloud, AI, marketing, and research. The company shifted development of the next 'Halo' game to its Activision studio.
Separately, Microsoft published its Global AI Diffusion Report. The report tracks worldwide adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. It found global AI usage continued to grow in the second quarter of 2026.
Oppenheimer raised its price target for Microsoft to $570. The firm cited confidence in Microsoft's AI monetization strategy.
On Tuesday, Microsoft announced the takedown of EvilTokens, a significant phishing service.