Google Cuts Jobs in Platforms and Devices Unit
Tech giant Google is reportedly reducing its workforce in the Platforms and Devices unit, which includes teams working on Android software, Pixel phones, and the Chrome browser. This decision comes after the company previously offered buyout packages to employees in these areas.
A Google representative shared insights with The Information, stating that the merger of the Platforms and Devices teams last year has led the company to focus on becoming more efficient and enhancing operations. These efforts have unfortunately resulted in job cuts, in addition to the voluntary exit program announced in January.
In February, reports from Bloomberg indicated that job cuts had also occurred in Google’s cloud services division, though these reductions affected only a small number of teams. Earlier this year, in January 2023, Alphabet, Google’s parent company, revealed plans to lay off around 12,000 employees globally, which represents about 6 percent of its total workforce.
Concern among employees has been growing, particularly among those in the U.S. and Canada, who expressed their worries over ongoing layoffs through an internal petition. More than 1,250 staff members signed the petition, calling for better severance packages and highlighting a sense of instability within the company.
The petition pointed out that factors such as negative performance reviews, a lack of buyout options for departing employees, and unclear severance terms were affecting staff morale and productivity. Many signatories were especially anxious about how their severance packages might compare to those offered to employees laid off in January.
This initiative was backed by the Alphabet Workers Union and was addressed to CEO Sundar Pichai. Those who signed the petition criticized Google’s performance review system for not fairly representing individual contributions.
As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that many Google employees are seeking clarity and support in these challenging times.
