Bezos: AI Could Lead to 3-Day Workweeks and Labor Shortages

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos predicts that productivity gains from artificial intelligence (AI) could lead to shorter workweeks and potentially create labor shortages as individuals choose to work less.

In an interview with Fox News, Bezos estimated that AI could boost economy-wide productivity by double-digit percentages. He suggested this could allow families to manage on a single income and workers to support themselves by working only three days a week.

Bezos expressed more concern about a potential shortage of labor rather than a lack of jobs. "It’s going to actually be difficult to hire people," he stated, as productivity increases would allow individuals to avoid working multiple jobs if they choose.

Regarding recent large-scale layoffs at Amazon, Bezos attributed them to overhiring during the pandemic. The company reduced approximately 30,000 corporate roles in late 2025 and early 2026.

On the topic of AI regulation, Bezos advocated for a "light hand" from the government, suggesting regulations should target harmful applications of AI rather than the technology itself.