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Google Reduces Workforce in Platforms and Devices Division

Google has begun implementing significant job cuts in its Platforms and Devices division, a move initially indicated earlier this year. Reports from The Information highlight that hundreds of employees are affected within this segment, which encompasses over 25,000 staff members and is responsible for the company’s Pixel phones, smartwatches, Nest products, the Android operating system, ChromeOS, and the Chrome browser.

A spokesperson for Google stated, “Since the merger of our platforms and devices teams last year, we have concentrated on enhancing our agility and operational efficiency, which has necessitated some workforce reductions in conjunction with the voluntary exit program initiated in January.”

The restructuring into the Platforms and Devices group took place in April 2024, merging the previous Platforms and Ecosystems and Devices and Services teams, with Senior Vice President Rick Osterloh at the helm. Earlier in January, Osterloh communicated to employees the availability of buyouts for those who may have found it challenging to meet job expectations or were dissatisfied with the company’s hybrid work model. This strategy of providing buyouts instead of direct layoffs was reportedly influenced by past employee dissatisfaction related to workforce reductions.

In a similar vein, Meta also disclosed layoffs in January, reflecting a broader trend where tech companies have been continuously trimming their workforces over the past couple of years. However, this trend contrasts notably with the artificial intelligence sector, which continues to face a noticeable shortage of adequately skilled workers.

As the tech landscape evolves, these changes underscore ongoing challenges companies face in balancing workforce needs with operational effectiveness amidst a tumultuous economic environment.

Source
www.engadget.com