Google has launched a voluntary buyout programme for employees in its “Platforms and Devices” division, which includes over 25,000 full-time staff working on products such as Android, Chrome, Google Photos, Pixel, and Fitbit. This move is part of a broader effort to streamline operations as the company shifts its focus to cost-cutting measures while expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives.
The buyout programme is available to full-time employees based in the United States, although the specific number of those within the division has not been disclosed.
Rick Osterloh, Senior Vice President of Platforms and Devices, addressed employees in a memo, explaining that the initiative would provide eligible employees the opportunity to voluntarily leave with a severance package. He described the programme as a “right next step” aimed at improving efficiency and velocity in the division.
The buyouts come as part of Google’s larger strategy to reduce operational costs while ramping up investment in AI development. In October, the company’s newly appointed CFO, Anat Ashkenazi, confirmed that cost-cutting would be a top priority as Google pushes forward with its AI projects.
“Any organisation can always push a little further and I’ll be looking at additional opportunities,” Ashkenazi stated, hinting at further measures to streamline operations.
The buyout offer follows a restructuring of the Android and Pixel divisions in April, with the company aiming to drive greater momentum in future projects. A Google spokesperson emphasised that the restructuring would help fuel momentum, with a focus on building great products faster and more efficiently.
Though the announcement raised concerns about potential layoffs, many employees have expressed support for the voluntary nature of the buyouts. In an internal post seen by CNBC, one employee wrote:
“The P&D email portends layoffs, which sucks but offering buyouts first is what we asked for, is the right thing to do, and Rick deserves a lot of credit for delivering.”
This sentiment reflects a sense of approval for Google’s decision to offer buyouts as an initial step, rather than immediately resorting to layoffs.
The buyout programme is scheduled to close on February 20, with employees who choose to accept receiving confirmation of their acceptance by March 25. The programme is particularly aimed at employees who may be struggling to meet the demands of the hybrid work environment or whose personal goals no longer align with the division’s evolving priorities.
