New York (AP) - Layoffs continue to mount across the tech sector, and mentions of "artificial intelligence" are appearing more frequently in announcements about workforce reductions.

This trend is causing unease among employees in various industries, as many worry about the implications of AI's swift integration for their careers. Even when AI does not directly displace workers, companies are trimming staff to fund the technology or to highlight efficiency gains - sparking concerns over shrinking payrolls and limited future hiring.

Company statements tend to remain ambiguous. AI is seldom listed as the only factor in layoffs, with firms more often referencing overall restructuring or economic pressures. Some leaders indicate that current cuts are reallocating resources, and AI's growth might create fresh positions later. Yet, it remains unclear if AI truly drives these decisions or serves as a narrative for investors.

That said, several firms have disclosed recent layoffs while acknowledging AI's influence.

Cisco Systems revealed on Wednesday plans to eliminate fewer than 4,000 positions, roughly 5% of its staff. This came alongside news of record third-quarter fiscal revenue, fueled by strong demand for its AI-related tools and infrastructure.

In a memo to staff, CEO Chuck Robbins stated that "companies thriving in the AI era will prioritize focus, urgency, and disciplined investment shifts" - requiring "tough choices." He added that Cisco would assist affected workers in securing new roles, either inside or outside the company.

In February, financial firm Block laid off over 4,000 from its workforce exceeding 10,000. The company behind Square and Cash App emphasized restructuring to leverage AI opportunities.

CEO Jack Dorsey wrote to shareholders: "The core thesis is simple. Intelligence tools have changed what it means to build and run a company. A significantly smaller team, using the tools we’re building, can do more and do it better."

AI references extend beyond tech. Chemicals giant Dow, Inc. in January planned to cut around 4,500 jobs as part of efforts to "streamline" - including greater focus on AI and automation.

Pinterest also announced in January layoffs affecting less than 15% of its employees, while shifting funds toward AI. The photo-sharing site framed the reductions within "transformation initiatives," reallocating to AI-centric positions and AI-enhanced products.

Last autumn, Lufthansa Group projected 4,000 job losses by 2030, citing AI adoption, digital tools, and work consolidation across airlines.

While not always directly linking AI to cuts, major players like Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon are slashing thousands of jobs even as they pour billions into AI.

Meta intends to reduce about 8,000 positions, or 10% of its workforce, beginning next week. Last month's announcement focused on balancing investments and boosting efficiency overall.

Nevertheless, this occurs amid Meta's rising AI infrastructure costs and recruitment of top AI talent. Earlier this year, CEO Mark Zuckerberg noted that by 2026, "AI starts to dramatically change the way that we work."