Google has announced a series of layoffs across multiple divisions as the company shifts its focus toward the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). The search giant has reduced its core engineering team by several hundred employees and made significant cuts to its “Voice Assistant” program division. Additionally, Google has streamlined its hardware division responsible for devices like the Pixel, Nest, and Fitbit, resulting in hundreds of other roles being eliminated. However, the exact number of impacted employees remains unknown.
According to a Google spokesperson, these changes and layoffs are part of the company’s responsible investment in its top priorities and significant opportunities ahead. Efforts are being made to increase efficiency, enable better collaboration, and reallocate resources to align with the most crucial product objectives. The spokesperson expressed continued support for affected employees, facilitating new role placements within Google and offering additional assistance in finding employment beyond the company.
This restructuring occurs amidst intense competition among tech giants such as Google and Microsoft in the race to build advanced AI tools. As part of its AI development strategy, Google recently introduced “Gemini,” its latest generative AI product set to rival Microsoft-backed OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The emphasis on AI innovation has required Google to reevaluate its workforce allocation, leading to the current round of layoffs.
Although these organizational changes may be unsettling for those affected, Google aims to minimize the impact by providing resources like outplacement services and severance packages. The ousted employees will also have the opportunity to apply for other positions within the company.
While the precise scope of the layoffs remains undisclosed, reports from Semafor and 9to5 serve as initial sources on the matter. Google has confirmed the restructuring and emphasized that these cuts are part of a routine process in adjusting organizational dynamics.
This shift toward prioritizing AI development showcases Google’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of technological advancements. By streamlining its operations, the company aims to enhance its ability to innovate, ultimately benefiting users and further solidifying its position in the competitive tech landscape.
The source of the article is from the blog maestropasta.cz