Importance Score: 70 / 100 🔴
Alphabet Reportedly Cuts Jobs in Android and Chrome Divisions
Technology giant Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has reportedly implemented job cuts impacting hundreds of employees within its platforms and devices division, which oversees the Android operating system and Chrome web browser. This move is reportedly part of the company’s ongoing restructuring efforts.
Platforms and Devices Division Affected
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the reductions targeted Google’s platforms and devices unit. This division encompasses teams responsible for Google Photos and hardware products including Pixel phones, Fitbit wearables, and Nest smart home devices, according to The Information.
Google Statement on Workforce Reduction
In a released statement, a Google spokesperson acknowledged the job eliminations, stating, “Since combining the platforms and devices teams last year, we’ve focused on operating more efficiently and with greater agility. This has involved some role eliminations, in addition to the voluntary exit program offered in January.”
Number of Employees Impacted Unclear
The precise number of employees affected by this latest round of cuts remains unclear.
The Post has contacted Google seeking further clarification on the scope of these job reductions.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Voluntary Buyout Program Preceded Layoffs
Prior to these reported layoffs, Google extended voluntary severance offers in January to employees within the same platforms and devices division. The company previously stated that US-based employees who applied for this voluntary program were informed of their application status by March 25 and, if approved, received a severance package.
Restructuring Amid AI Investment
Alphabet and Google are currently undergoing restructuring as the company increases its investment and focus on developing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and products. This strategic shift necessitates resource allocation adjustments across various divisions.
CFO Hints at Further Cost Reductions
Last October, Alphabet’s Chief Financial Officer, Anat Ashkenazi, signaled the company’s intention to identify “additional opportunities” for cost optimization and reductions across its operations.
Prior Layoffs in 2023
In the preceding year, 2023, Google reduced its workforce by approximately 12,000 positions. This represented roughly 6% of the company’s total global employee base at the time.
Google’s Global Workforce Size
Despite these recent and previous job cuts, Google still maintains a substantial global workforce of approximately 180,000 employees.
Tech Industry Trends: Broader Workforce Reductions
Google’s recent actions align with a broader trend within the technology sector, where numerous companies have trimmed their workforces in recent months. Meta, under the leadership of Mark Zuckerberg, also implemented a 5% reduction targeting underperforming employees earlier this year, with the CEO citing expectations of a highly “intense year” ahead for the company and industry.