Google Reshuffles the Deck: Hundreds Lose Jobs in Major Layoffs

Summary

On April 11, 2025, Google announced layoffs affecting hundreds of employees in the division responsible for Android, Chrome, Pixel, and related products. The layoffs come after a voluntary exit program offered in January, with the company stating that the job reductions are part of an effort to become 'more nimble and operate more effectively.'

The Platforms & Devices division, led by SVP Rick Osterloh, includes a wide range of Google's offerings, such as Android (Auto, TV, Wear OS, XR), Chrome, ChromeOS, Google Photos, Google One, Pixel, Fitbit, and Nest. The layoffs are expected to have minimal impact on end users, with major products and initiatives continuing as planned.

The decision to lay off employees follows a broader company-wide mandate for 'speed and efficiency,' which was also the goal behind the voluntary exit program announced earlier this year. Google aimed to address past criticisms of layoffs by giving employees the option to leave before the formal layoffs took place.