Android, Pixel, Chrome Units Affected by Job Cutbacks
Google has set in motion a fresh batch of layoffs that will impact a number of hundred employees across its device and platform teams. Divisions impacted include the Android operating system, Pixel hardware, and the Chrome browser division, according to sources familiar with the issue. The Information first reported the news. A definitive count of roles impacted has not been publicly acknowledged as of yet.
Ongoing Restructuring Drives Workforce Reduction
Google has embarked on a comprehensive restructuring exercise in the last two years, and this has seen various rounds of layoffs. In December 2023, about 10% of employees who were in managerial and executive positions were laid off. In February 2024, job cuts were also witnessed in the Human Resources department in the cloud services segment, an action credited to cost-cutting measures.
Efficiency Targets and Competitive Pressures Influence Decisions
Google CEO Sundar Pichai had earlier this year in 2022 declared that about 20% of the company's employees had to boost productivity. Later, the company fired around 12,000 workers early in 2023. The recent layoffs take place as growing competition in the tech industry, especially from companies such as OpenAI, moves into core search engine capabilities.
Wider Industry Trends and Policy Context
The timing of these layoffs is significant, as they coincide with stricter immigration policies being enacted by the administration of former President Donald Trump, which could impact the pool of available foreign talent within the U.S. economy. Meanwhile, reports in industry indicate that Microsoft also intends further layoffs in May 2025.
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