Google has laid off hundreds of employees in an effort to reduce costs, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting tech jobs. Layoffs have affected several key areas including the core engineering division, teams working on the voice-powered Google Assistant, and the hardware division responsible for products such as the Pixel phone, Fitbit watches, and Nest thermostat. The employees were notified of the termination of their roles on Wednesday, January 10.
The company informed affected employees, “We’ve had to make some difficult decisions about the ongoing employment of some Google employees and we regret to inform you that your position is being eliminated.”
In a statement to the New York Times, Google said, “We’re responsibly investing in our company’s biggest priorities and the significant opportunities ahead. Some teams are continuing to make these kinds of organizational changes, which include some role eliminations globally.”
Layoffs across the tech industry
Google is not alone in implementing layoffs. Other major tech organizations such as X, Meta, and Amazon have also laid off a significant number of employees. Amazon, for example, has already cut hundreds of jobs this year, particularly targeting its streaming service, Twitch. Unity, a video game software company, has announced plans to eliminate 1,800 roles this year, accounting for 25% of its workforce.
Last year, Google cut 6% of its workforce, amounting to 12,000 people. The Alphabet Workers Union, representing nearly 1,500 workers at Alphabet, described the layoffs as “needless,” stating that the company cannot continue to lay off coworkers while making substantial profits.
Featured image: Photo by PhotoMIX; Dall-E
