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In January 2025, Google is implementing a new round of workforce reductions within its Platforms & Devices team. Employees within this division have been offered voluntary buyouts by Google SVP of Devices and Services Rick Osterloh. It is unclear what specific severance packages are being offered or if there is a targeted number of employees to be cut at this time.
The Platforms & Services division, formed just last year, combines teams responsible for software such as Android and Chrome with those creating hardware like Pixel phones and Nest devices. This offer does not extend company-wide, as employees working on Google search and AI projects are reportedly not affected.
While the option of voluntary buyouts may be seen as a more considerate approach compared to mass layoffs, the ultimate outcome remains the same: a reduction in personnel within Google’s hardware and software team, potentially resulting in increased workloads for remaining employees.
