Thu Jun 26 09:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article version of the provided text, written from the perspective of The Hindu:
**Summary:**
The Hindu news report from June 25, 2025, details Microsoft’s plans for another round of layoffs within its Xbox gaming division as part of a broader restructuring in preparation for the next-generation console launch. The Verge reported that the cuts might affect the sales team and follow previous layoffs earlier in the year (6,000 and 300 workers, respectively). The news places these cuts within the broader context of job losses across the gaming industry, citing downsizing at PlayStation Studios and EA. Microsoft previously laid off approximately 1,900 Activision Blizzard and Xbox employees and shuttered Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin.
**News Article:**
**Microsoft Prepares for New Round of Xbox Layoffs Amid Industry-Wide Downturn**
**New Delhi, June 25, 2025** – Microsoft is bracing for another wave of job cuts within its Xbox gaming division, sources confirm, marking a continuation of restructuring efforts ahead of the highly anticipated launch of its next-generation console. The news, first reported by *The Verge*, suggests that the cuts may extend to the company’s sales team.
This announcement follows two previous rounds of layoffs earlier this year, impacting 6,000 and 300 employees respectively, raising concerns about the long-term stability of the tech giant’s gaming arm.
These developments occur against a backdrop of widespread layoffs within the gaming industry. Major players such as PlayStation Studios and EA have also announced significant downsizing in the past year, citing the need to optimize team sizes and streamline operations.
Earlier this year, Microsoft eliminated approximately 1,900 roles across Activision Blizzard and Xbox, and notably closed down game studios Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin, moves that sent shockwaves through the gaming community.
While Microsoft has not released an official statement, industry analysts suggest the restructuring is aimed at increasing efficiency and focusing resources on the development and marketing of the next-generation console. The impact of these layoffs on game development and the overall gaming ecosystem remains to be seen.