The IT world has seen significant developments in May, with major cyber attacks targeting UK retailers and Microsoft implementing substantial layoffs. In the latest episode of the ITPro Podcast, Jane is joined by news and analysis editor Ross Kelly to discuss three major news stories from the past month and celebrate Java’s 30th birthday.
Microsoft Layoffs and AI Investments
Microsoft has announced another round of layoffs, affecting over 800 developers, with a significant portion coming from Washington state, the heartland of Microsoft’s headquarters. This move comes at an interesting time for the company, as they’ve been performing well and are bullish about their AI investments. Ross Kelly notes, “It must be really demoralizing for people not only at Microsoft but across the tech industry to see this still continuing.” The layoffs raise concerns about the future of developers and engineers in the industry, particularly with the rise of agentic AI. As Ross points out, “For developers and engineers specifically, I think the writing has been on the wall.” Big tech figures like Marc Benioff have discussed the potential for reduced hiring in the second half of 2025 due to advancements in AI.
Cyber Attacks on UK Retailers
Recent weeks have seen significant cyber attacks on major UK retailers, including M&S. Hackers used social engineering techniques on a third-party contractor to access M&S systems, highlighting the dangers of an increasingly interconnected software supply chain. Ross Kelly emphasizes that “it underlines the dangers of an increasingly interconnected software supply chain.” These incidents have boosted the reputation of certain hacking groups and raised concerns about the security measures in place.
Java’s 30th Birthday
The podcast also takes a moment to celebrate Java’s 30th birthday. Despite its age, Java remains a popular programming language and is experiencing something of a renaissance. Ross notes that Java’s popularity is still very much intact, with organizations scrambling to find Java developers. “It’s far from showing its age,” Ross says, highlighting Java’s enduring relevance in the tech industry.
The episode provides in-depth analysis of these significant stories and their implications for the IT world. As the tech industry continues to evolve, staying informed about such developments is crucial for professionals and businesses alike.
