Tech Giant Google has fired hundreds of its employees, reported ‘The Information’ citing the sources. The report further stated that the employees of Platforms and Devices unit are affected by the layoffs. This division oversees key products including Android software, Pixel smartphones, and the Chrome browser.

Google is yet to disclose the exact number of roles affected, but the move is aimed at simplifying its operations and reducing expenses.

“Since combining the Platforms and Devices teams last year, we’ve focused on becoming more nimble and operating more effectively. This included making some job reductions in addition to the voluntary exit programme that we offered in January,” the report quoted the company’s spokesperson.

Google’s recent firing are a part of the company’s efforts to reduce its workforce. This began in 2023 with the elimination of around 6% of its global staff. The company also saw additional job cuts since then. However, the total workforce remains at approximately 1,80,000 employees.

Google Layoffs: Voluntary Exit Programme

Earlier this year, Google launched a voluntary exit program for US-based employees working on Android, Pixel, and Chrome projects. This program mainly targeted those employees who might not fit with the new direction of the combined division or found hybrid work policies challenging.

Notably, teams working on Search and artificial intelligence (AI) were not the part of this voluntary exit program. Additionally, in February, Google laid off some employees within its cloud division, reported Bloomberg. However, the cuts were relatively limited and only affected a few teams.