Tech workers maxed out their AI use. Now they’re trying to minimise it
thestar.com.my Jun 21, 2026

Tech workers maxed out their AI use. Now they’re trying to minimise it

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Tech companies initially encouraged employees to use as much artificial intelligence as possible, but now they are trying to minimize it due to high costs. The "tokenmaxxing" era, where employees competed to use the most AI tokens, has ended, and companies like Meta, Amazon, and Uber are implementing limits on AI use. This shift comes after companies saw an exponential increase in AI-related costs, with some blowing through their projected spending for the year in just a few months. The reversal highlights the challenges of figuring out how to best use AI tools. Companies are now seeking to use AI more strategically and efficiently.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · Companies are reevaluating their AI spending as they struggle to draw a direct link between AI investment and useful features or functionality.
  • · Meta's goal to spend less while achieving similar business results underscores the need for a more strategic approach to AI use.