Google Lays Off 100 Employees: Design-Related Positions Cut Due to AI; 200 Layoffs Last Year

Tech giant Google has laid off 100 employees. According to a CNBC report, the company has primarily cut design roles.

Google is rapidly integrating generative AI into its search results, resulting in several changes to existing user interface and experience design roles.

The company has made these layoffs to focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and automate the design process.

This move is part of Google’s restructuring policy. The company believes that the advent of AI requires new skill sets, which is why older roles are being eliminated.

Sundar Pichai’s ‘AI-First’ Vision

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has previously indicated that the company will make major changes prioritizing AI. These layoffs are part of the same “AI-first” strategy.

Pichai recently spoke about increasing efficiency within the company and reducing unnecessary expenses. He emphasizes that Google should now focus on core AI products and services that will accelerate the company’s future growth.

Google cut 12,000 jobs in January 2022

Over the past two years, Google has taken several steps to increase efficiency. Previously, in September 2022, Pichai stated that he wanted Google to become 20% more efficient. Following this, Google cut 12,000 jobs in January 2022.

Google has now taken another step of layoffs due to its AI competitors, such as OpenAI, launching new products. These products could impact Google’s search business.

Google cut 200 jobs from its core team in May 2024.

In addition, during Wednesday’s meeting, Pichai explained the meaning of the term “Googleness,” saying that employees are needed to update a modern Google. According to reports, Google cut 200 jobs from its core team in May 2024 as part of a cost-cutting restructuring process. Additionally, some jobs were transferred overseas.