Google lays off over 100+ employees in cloud design teams
What's the story
Google has cut more than 100 employees from design-related roles in its cloud unit. The move is part of the company's cost-cutting measures and shift in focus toward artificial intelligence (AI). The layoffs affected teams involved in "quantitative user experience research" and "platform and service experience," along with adjacent groups, according to internal documents seen by CNBC.
Team reductions
Some teams cut down by half
The layoffs have been particularly severe, with some teams being cut down by as much as half. Most of the affected employees are based in the US and have until early December to find another role within the company. The decision comes as part of Google's broader strategy to accelerate its transition toward AI technologies.
Strategy details
Ongoing voluntary exit packages and AI integration push
Since early 2025, Google has been offering voluntary exit packages across its US-based units. The company has also been cutting managers overseeing small teams and encouraging employees to integrate AI into their daily workflows. The layoffs and buyouts have affected multiple divisions, including HR, hardware, ads, search, finance, and commerc,e as part of this strategic shift.
Leadership perspective
Pichai emphasizes need for efficiency amid AI transition
Google's CEO Sundar Pichai has stressed the need for the company to "be more efficient as we scale up." This statement indicates that the headcount reductions are part of a larger long-term strategy. The tech giant has also heavily invested in AI infrastructure to stay competitive with other industry leaders such as Microsoft and Meta.