tech
March 8, 2026
Current and former Block workers say AI can’t do their jobs after Jack Dorsey’s mass layoffs: ‘You can’t really AI that’
The CEO said he cut the company’s workforce by 4,000 people – almost in half – because of gains in AI productivity
TL;DR
- Block laid off approximately 4,000 employees, nearly half its workforce.
- CEO Jack Dorsey attributed the layoffs to increased productivity and sophistication of AI tools.
- Current and former employees expressed skepticism that current AI can replace human workers and their strategic input.
- Some workers feel they were tasked with developing the AI tools that would eventually supplant them.
- The layoffs may also be an attempt by Dorsey to reposition Block away from cryptocurrency and boost investor confidence.
- Block's stock saw a rise following the announcement of AI-driven layoffs.
- Workers reported increased pressure to use AI, with AI proficiency becoming part of performance evaluations.
- Concerns exist about the ethical implications of AI, including its environmental impact and potential for job displacement.
- Customer service bots have reportedly made significant errors, frustrating customers.
- Remaining employees are experiencing increased workloads and decreased morale.
- Despite AI's potential benefits, its lack of judgment and emotional intelligence is a concern.
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